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This popular course has withstood the passing of time, perhaps not as long as has This popular course has withstood the passing of time, perhaps not as long as Christianity has been around but some years at least. been around but some years at least. The course is based on eighteen modules but the course leader may use the course in a The course is based on eighteen modules but the course leader may use the course in a different sequence or even use the parts needed leaving out sections that do not fit in with the different sequence or even use the parts needed leaving out sections that do not fit in with the overall plan. overall plan. Some sections could be taken in conjunction with others thereby shortening the course. Some sections could be taken in conjunction with others thereby shortening the course.

This updated printing has introduced colour and an improved lay-out, however Publications This updated printing has introduced colour and an improved lay-out, however Publications would be very pleased to receive opinions and suggestions for further improvements. would be very pleased to receive opinions and suggestions for further improvements.

It should be understood that the literature referred to, i.e the , and the Alternative It should be understood that the literature referred to, i.e the Catechism, and the Alternative are available from Church in Wales Publications. Eucharist are available from Church in Wales Publications. are available from all good bookshops, in the shops run by the SPCK (Society for the Bibles are available from all good bookshops, in the shops run by the SPCK (Society for the Promotion of Christian Knowledge), and from the St. Asaph Resource Centre, Wrexham. Promotion of Christian Knowledge), and from the St. Asaph Resource Centre, Wrexham. There are SPCK shops in and Chester, and they will accept mailorders. There are SPCK shops in Cardiff and Chester, and they will accept mailorders.

The version preferred is the NRSV as most of the modern services use material from this The Bible version preferred is the NRSV as most of the modern services use material from this version but depending on usage other versions may be used. version but depending on parish usage other versions may be used.

Modules 17 and 18 should be used mainly with adult instruction as they highlight the Ten Modules 17 and 18 should be used mainly with adult instruction as they highlight the Ten Commandments and vocations. Commandments and vocations.

The course leader may photocopy the sheets as needed without seeking permission from The course leader may photocopy the sheets as needed without seeking permission from Church in Wales Publications. Church in Wales Publications.

© Church in Wales Publications 2002 © Church in Wales Publications 2002 No part of this course may be stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, using No part of this course may be stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form, using computers or other electronic equipment. computers or other electronic equipment. Photocopying is permitted only for the use by the Incumbent or his/her deputised personnel. Photocopying is permitted only for the use by the Incumbent or his/her deputised personnel. Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee MMoodduullee 11 Church in Wales 11 Church in Wales What is the Point? What is the Point?

The Church requires that people to What will be expected of me? The Church requires that people to What will be expected of me? ? ? be confirmed have been baptised, be confirmed have been baptised, and are sufficiently instructed in the What About the Work Sheets? and are sufficiently instructed in the What About the Work Sheets? Christian faith, are penitent for their Christian faith, are penitent for their d In preparation for each session there will be a d In preparation for each session there will be a sins, and are ready to confess sins, and are ready to confess sheet to complete. Give yourself enough time to sheet to complete. Give yourself enough time to as Saviour and to obey Jesus Christ as Saviour and to obey do this. Begin by being quiet and asking for God’s do this. Begin by being quiet and asking for God’s him as . him as Lord. e help, using a prayer of your own. Bring the e help, using a prayer of your own. Bring the completed sheet with you, and then everyone can completed sheet with you, and then everyone can Let us look at these Let us look at these talk about their answers. The work isn’t like school talk about their answers. The work isn’t like school requirements for a moment: requirements for a moment: homework - you won’t get a mark, but it will help homework - you won’t get a mark, but it will help 1. As well as your name, address 1. As well as your name, address you understand more about the Christian Faith. At you understand more about the Christian Faith. At m and date of birth, if you have been m and date of birth, if you have been the end of the course, you can keep all your the end of the course, you can keep all your baptised, your priest or instructor baptised, your priest or instructor sheets together as a record sheets together as a record r will need to know the date and r will need to know the date and of all that you have learned. of all that you have learned. place. You may have a place. You may have a baptism i i certificate, but if not you or your certificate, but if not you or your To complete each To complete each f parents should write to the Church f parents should write to the Church where you were baptised for a sheet you will need: where you were baptised for a sheet you will need: replacement certificate. • A pen or pencil replacement certificate. • A pen or pencil n • A Bible n • A Bible 2. The purpose of confirmation • A copy of the 2. The purpose of confirmation • A copy of the preparation is to make sure you are preparation is to make sure you are sufficiently instructed in the Catechism sufficiently instructed in the Catechism o o Christian Faith This is not hard Available from Church in Wales Publications Christian Faith This is not hard Available from Church in Wales Publications ( tel 029 2034 8259) - £3.50 incl PP) ( tel 029 2034 8259) - £3.50 incl PP) work, but a unique and exciting work, but a unique and exciting opportunity to learn about the opportunity to learn about the You will also need to know how to look up a verse You will also need to know how to look up a verse C Christian faith and to ask all the C Christian faith and to ask all the in the Bible. in the Bible. questions you want. You should questions you want. You should

attend ALL the sessions; but if there HOW TO LOOK UP A VERSE IN THE BIBLE attend ALL the sessions; but if there HOW TO LOOK UP A VERSE IN THE BIBLE is a reason (e.g. sickness) why you is a reason (e.g. sickness) why you The Bible is divided into two parts: the Old The Bible is divided into two parts: the Old are unable to go, you should tell are unable to go, you should tell e Testament and the . e Testament and the New Testament. your course leader. There are 39 books in the and 27 in your course leader. There are 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament. Some Bibles also include a the New Testament. Some Bibles also include a 3. A priest can baptise you and section called the which comes between 3. A priest can baptise you and section called the Apocrypha which comes between B instruct you in the Christian Faith, the Old and New Testaments. B instruct you in the Christian Faith, the Old and New Testaments. but only you can be penitent for Decide first whether the text you are looking for is in but only you can be penitent for Decide first whether the text you are looking for is in

your sins, ready to confess Jesus the Old Testament, the Apocrypha or the New your sins, ready to confess Jesus the Old Testament, the Apocrypha or the New Christ as Saviour and obey him as Testament, find the page number on which the Christ as Saviour and obey him as Testament, find the page number on which the Lord. Do not think that if you simply relevant book starts, and find that page. Lord. Do not think that if you simply relevant book starts, and find that page. y Look through the book for the chapter wanted and y Look through the book for the chapter wanted and attend meetings, confirmation is attend meetings, confirmation is then find the right verse. They are all numbered e.g then find the right verse. They are all numbered e.g automatic at the end. If you are Genesis 1: 2-4 means the book of Genesis chapter automatic at the end. If you are Genesis 1: 2-4 means the book of Genesis chapter uncertain whether or not you 1, verses 2 to 4. (Genesis is the first book of the uncertain whether or not you 1, verses 2 to 4. (Genesis is the first book of the h h believe in Jesus Christ, then the Bible). Remember that some books have a number believe in Jesus Christ, then the Bible). Remember that some books have a number honest thing to do would be to put before the title (i.e 1Kings or 2Corinthians), this honest thing to do would be to put before the title (i.e 1Kings or 2Corinthians), this off confirmation until a time when simply means that the book of Kings comes in two off confirmation until a time when simply means that the book of Kings comes in two you are more sure. No one will think parts and that St Paul wrote two letters to the you are more sure. No one will think parts and that St Paul wrote two letters to the Corinthians. Corinthians. W any the less of you if you decide W any the less of you if you decide The modern bibles also have an index in the front The modern bibles also have an index in the front this. where you will be able to find the starting page of this. where you will be able to find the starting page of any book. any book. Computer bibles work similarly. Computer bibles work similarly.

Page 2 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 2 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee MMoodduullee Church in Wales 11 Church in Wales 11

MODULE 1 MODULE 1 What’s The Point? Why Be Confirmed? What’s The Point? Why Be Confirmed?

MODULE 2 MODULE 2 The Church Part 1 You cannot be a footballer without The Church Part 1 You cannot be a footballer without belonging to a team, well at least not if belonging to a team, well at least not if MODULE 3 MODULE 3 The Church Part 2 you are serious about being a reasonable The Church Part 2 you are serious about being a reasonable player! player! MODULE 4 In the same way you cannot be a MODULE 4 In the same way you cannot be a Jesus: His Life & Ministry Christian without belonging to the Church. Jesus: His Life & Ministry Christian without belonging to the Church. The Church being the Body of Christ, you The Church being the Body of Christ, you MODULE 5 MODULE 5 Jesus: Eastertide will be part of the Body. Jesus: Eastertide will be part of the Body. We are made members of that Body We are made members of that Body MODULE 6 through our baptism and in Confirmation MODULE 6 through our baptism and in Confirmation Jesus: Conclusions we take upon ourselves the full Jesus: Conclusions we take upon ourselves the full responsibilities of membership, which responsibilities of membership, which MODULE 7 MODULE 7 The Creed includes regular worship. The Creed includes regular worship. If we want to be followers of Jesus Christ If we want to be followers of Jesus Christ MODULE 8 then this is the way. MODULE 8 then this is the way. The Bible The Bible Many people will be saying ‘Why bother? Many people will be saying ‘Why bother? MODULE 9 MODULE 9 Prayer Are you not already a good person?’ Prayer Are you not already a good person?’ Well, maybe we are or maybe we are not. Well, maybe we are or maybe we are not. MODULE 10 Some even may say that to go to Church MODULE 10 Some even may say that to go to Church The Sacraments is boring. The Sacraments is boring. But it is not about other people and their But it is not about other people and their MODULE 11 MODULE 11 Baptism opinions - it is about you! Baptism opinions - it is about you! God calls everyone, all the time, and it is God calls everyone, all the time, and it is MODULE 12 you who listened, you who takes this MODULE 12 you who listened, you who takes this Confirmation step. Confirmation step. Just as a good footballer learns the Just as a good footballer learns the MODULE 13 MODULE 13 The Eucharist Part 1 basics of the sport, so in turn we must The Eucharist Part 1 basics of the sport, so in turn we must know the basics of our faith. know the basics of our faith. MODULE 14 MODULE 14 The Eucharist Part 2 The Eucharist Part 2

MODULE 15 A Prayer for MODULE 15 A Prayer for What’s Gone Wrong? What’s Gone Wrong? Understanding Understanding MODULE 16 O God, you have promised that your Word shall MODULE 16 O God, you have promised that your Word shall The Christian Year The Christian Year not fail in its purpose; not fail in its purpose; What will I be learning What will I be learning MODULE 17 I pray that, as I study the Christian Faith your MODULE 17 I pray that, as I study the Christian Faith your The Commandments Holy Spirit may open my eyes to see the truth The Commandments Holy Spirit may open my eyes to see the truth MODULE 18 and my heart receive it; for Jesus Christ’s sake. MODULE 18 and my heart receive it; for Jesus Christ’s sake. Called to Serve Amen. Called to Serve Amen.

Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 3 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 3 MMoodduullee MMoodduullee 22 Church in Wales 22 WWhhaatt iiss tthhee CChhuurrcchh?? WWhhaatt iiss tthhee CChhuurrcchh??

In the words of a famous wordgame In the words of a famous wordgame - is it animal, vegetable, or mineral? - is it animal, vegetable, or mineral? We often talk as if the Church We often talk as if the Church means a building. We say, ‘I’m means a building. We say, ‘I’m going to Church.” Some people talk going to Church.” Some people talk as if it means the ordained ministry, as if it means the ordained ministry, “He’s going into the Church.” “He’s going into the Church.” Whenever the Bible speaks of the Whenever the Bible speaks of the Church it always means PEOPLE, Church it always means PEOPLE, the people of God, those who the people of God, those who believe in Jesus Christ and have believe in Jesus Christ and have been baptised. In different places been baptised. In different places throughout the world, people of all throughout the world, people of all ages gather to worship him. If you ages gather to worship him. If you believe in Jesus Christ and have believe in Jesus Christ and have been baptised, then you are part of The Church been baptised, then you are part of the Church. The Church can mean The Church the Church. The Church can mean different things to different people. different things to different people. Yes, it is a building, yes it is all the Yes, it is a building, yes it is all the people that come day by day and The Body of Christ people that come day by day and yes it is also the ordained ministry The Body of Christ The New Testament compares the Church to a body yes it is also the ordained ministry and all that serve in some capacity The New Testament compares the Church to a body of which Jesus is the head and every Christian is a and all that serve in some capacity or other. of which Jesus is the head and every Christian is a different member, each with our own job to do. Read or other. The Church, capital C, means all of different member, each with our own job to do. Read 1Corinthians 12:12-26 and then answer these The Church, capital C, means all of those things, it is a community. 1Corinthians 12:12-26 and then answer these questions: those things, it is a community. A family coming together with the questions: A family coming together with the aim of worship. Together. aim of worship. Together. In the New Testament, the Church Are the members of the body of Christ all the same Are the members of the body of Christ all the same In the New Testament, the Church is called the Family of God. (verses 14-17)? (verses 14-17)? is called the Family of God. Look up the following verses which Who gives the members their various jobs (verse 18) Look up the following verses which Who gives the members their various jobs (verse 18) tell us how the Church is like a tell us how the Church is like a family and fill in the gaps. Although there are many parts, how many bodies are family and fill in the gaps. Although there are many parts, how many bodies are there (verse 20)? there (verse 20)? 1. Ephesians 4:6, There is one 1. Ephesians 4:6, There is one God and ...... of God and ...... of us all. us all. 2. Mark 3:35, Whoever does the will 2. Mark 3:35, Whoever does the will of God is my ...... and of God is my ...... and ...... and mother...... and mother.

The Church in Wales 3. James 2:15-16, If a ...... or The Church in Wales 3. James 2:15-16, If a ...... or ...... is ill-clad and ...... is ill-clad and in lack of daily food, and one of you in lack of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the them the things needed for the body, what does it profit? body, what does it profit? 4. In what ways do you think the 4. In what ways do you think the Church today should be like a Church today should be like a family? Please feel free to discuss. family? Please feel free to discuss.

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The Body of Christ cont. The Body of Christ cont. Are there any useless organs in the Are there any useless organs in the body of Christ (verses 21-24)? 1. Why do we say the Church is ONE when body of Christ (verses 21-24)? 1. Why do we say the Church is ONE when there are lots of different churches or there are lots of different churches or If another Christian suffers or is denominations? If another Christian suffers or is denominations? helped, how should it affect us ? helped, how should it affect us ? (verse 26) 2. Why do we say the Church is HOLY when it is (verse 26) 2. Why do we say the Church is HOLY when it is made up of ordinary people who are far from made up of ordinary people who are far from God has given every member of the perfect? God has given every member of the perfect? Church a job to do. What do you Church a job to do. What do you think your job is? 3. Why do we say the Church is CATHOLIC think your job is? 3. Why do we say the Church is CATHOLIC when some Christians say that they are not when some Christians say that they are not One, Holy, Catholic Catholic but Protestant? One, Holy, Catholic Catholic but Protestant? and Apostolic Church and Apostolic Church 4. What do we mean when we say that the 4. What do we mean when we say that the The Creed describes the Church as Church is APOSTOLIC? The Creed describes the Church as Church is APOSTOLIC? One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic. One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic.

What do these words mean? What do these words mean? Although answers to these Although answers to these questions can be found in questions can be found in paragraph 17 of the Catechism, try paragraph 17 of the Catechism, try your best to answer in your own your best to answer in your own words or discuss in a group setting words or discuss in a group setting (if one is set up). (if one is set up). One of the points would be this - One of the points would be this - looking at the denominations today looking at the denominations today i.e Roman Catholic, Anglican, the i.e Roman Catholic, Anglican, the Orthodox (Greek and Russian), the Orthodox (Greek and Russian), the various smaller Christian various smaller Christian denominations like the etc., denominations like the Baptists etc., and all who believe in Christ as the and all who believe in Christ as the Saviour, how is it that there are so The Church in Wales is an Anglican denomination Saviour, how is it that there are so The Church in Wales is an Anglican denomination The Church in Wales many differences, small though and has 6 (, St Davids, The Church in Wales many differences, small though and has 6 dioceses (Llandaff, St Davids, Swansea some may be and is it important to and Brecon, , and Bangor). some may be and is it important to and Brecon, Monmouth, St Asaph and Bangor). strive for unity? Each are headed by a and the elect strive for unity? Each are headed by a bishop and the bishops elect Is there room for co-operation whilst an Archbishop (The ). Is there room for co-operation whilst an Archbishop (The Archbishop of Wales). preserving the differences in liturgy Dioceses are subdivided in archdeaconries and preserving the differences in liturgy Dioceses are subdivided in archdeaconries and and approach? archdeaconries are subdivided into area deaneries and approach? archdeaconries are subdivided into area deaneries and in turn these consist of . and in turn these consist of parishes. As Jesus said - ‘Love one another, The Archdeacons assist the bishop in administration As Jesus said - ‘Love one another, The Archdeacons assist the bishop in administration as I have loved you...... ’ matters and generally are the managers. as I have loved you...... ’ matters and generally are the managers.

Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 5 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 5 MMoodduullee MMoodduullee 33 Church in Wales 33 Church in Wales So, What’s So, What’s Happening? Happening?

In the Church building, The Parish In the Church building, The Parish Christians, the Body of Christ, As a small exercise draw a plan of your church Christians, the Body of Christ, As a small exercise draw a plan of your church meet to worship God. There and on that plan or outline place the following meet to worship God. There and on that plan or outline place the following are various kinds of services items in the position in which are various kinds of services items in the position in which you find them...... you find them...... and other activities, not only 1. The Altar and other activities, not only 1. The Altar in the Church building, and 2. The Chancel in the Church building, and 2. The Chancel not only on Sunday, but 3. The Pulpit not only on Sunday, but 3. The Pulpit throughout the week. 4. Nave throughout the week. 4. Nave 5. Vestry(Vestries). 5. Vestry(Vestries). 6. The Organ 6. The Organ Fill in this chart with some of 7. The Font Fill in this chart with some of 7. The Font the activities and services 8. Sanctuary the activities and services 8. Sanctuary during a typical week (e.g. during a typical week (e.g. Mothers’ Union, Youth Club, Also, can you think of any ways Mothers’ Union, Youth Club, Also, can you think of any ways Matins, Holy Eucharist etc.) in which your own parish could be different from Matins, Holy Eucharist etc.) in which your own parish could be different from another church you know? another church you know? You can find out about these You can find out about these from your parish magazine, Where does the priest place the vessels? from your parish magazine, Where does the priest place the vessels? the weekly news sheet or Where will you find a Bible? the weekly news sheet or Where will you find a Bible? from the notice board outside What is the Sermon? from the notice board outside What is the Sermon? the church. From your list you What is used to perform the rite of Baptism and the church. From your list you What is used to perform the rite of Baptism and where do you find it? where do you find it? will see how the church is will see how the church is involved in all aspects of life. involved in all aspects of life.

Sunday Sunday

Monday Monday

Tuesday Tuesday

Wednesday Wednesday The Church in Wales The Church in Wales

Thursday Thursday

Friday Friday

Saturday Saturday

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The Church is the Christian family of God The Church is the Christian family of God throughout the world. We belong to the throughout the world. We belong to the which exists in ANGLICAN COMMUNION which exists in almost every country in the world. Wales and the World almost every country in the world. Wales and the World Our Church is divided into areas called Our Church is divided into areas called PROVINCES and each Province is served by an PROVINCES and each Province is served by an ARCHBISHOP. Under the Archbishop there are ARCHBISHOP. Under the Archbishop there are several DIOCESES, each with its own BISHOP. several DIOCESES, each with its own BISHOP. Every ten years all these Bishops meet together Every ten years all these Bishops meet together to discuss the life of the Church and the World, to discuss the life of the Church and the World, and this conference is chaired by the Archbishop and this conference is chaired by the . of Canterbury. Each has two or more Each diocese has two or more ARCHDEACONRIES, each with an ARCHDEACONRIES, each with an ARCHDEACON. Archdeaconries are divided ARCHDEACON. Archdeaconries are divided into AREA DEANERIES, each with a AREA into AREA DEANERIES, each with a AREA , who is usually a parish priest. Deaneries DEAN, who is usually a parish priest. Deaneries are made up of PARISHES with a parish priest, are made up of PARISHES with a parish priest, sometimes called a VICAR and sometimes a sometimes called a VICAR and sometimes a RECTOR. Some parishes also have one or RECTOR. Some parishes also have one or more assistant priests, called a CURATE. more assistant priests, called a CURATE. We all belong to a parish, deanery, We all belong to a parish, deanery, archdeaconry, diocese and province. To help archdeaconry, diocese and province. To help you understand how we all fit in, try and you understand how we all fit in, try and complete this chart about the Province of Wales. complete this chart about the Province of Wales.

THE PROVINCE OF WALES THE PROVINCE OF WALES

The Archbishop of Wales The Archbishop of Wales

The Bishops and the six Dioceses The Bishops and the six Dioceses

...... he Church in he Church in Archdeaconries Archdeaconries T Wales T Wales Area Deaneries ...... Area Deaneries ......

Parishes ...... Parishes ......

My family ...... My family ......

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The following questions are intended to build up a picture of the The following questions are intended to build up a picture of the life of Jesus and to show the order in which events occurred. life of Jesus and to show the order in which events occurred. Answer all the questions and fill in the blank spaces. If you are Answer all the questions and fill in the blank spaces. If you are unsure of your answer, the Bible verses in brackets will help you. unsure of your answer, the Bible verses in brackets will help you. 1. God sent the angel ...... 1. God sent the angel ...... to visit the Virgin Mary in a city of Galilee to visit the Virgin Mary in a city of Galilee (Luke 1:26) named ...... (Luke 1:26) named ...... The angel told Mary that she would have The angel told Mary that she would have a son through the power of the Holy Spirit a son through the power of the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35) The child, whose name would be Jesus, (Luke 1:35) The child, whose name would be Jesus, would be called Holy ...... would be called Holy ......

2. Why was Jesus born in Bethlehem? 2. Why was Jesus born in Bethlehem? ...... (Luke 2:1-7) ...... (Luke 2:1-7) ......

3. Who came from the East to worship 3. Who came from the East to worship (Matthew 2:1-2) Jesus? ...... (Matthew 2:1-2) Jesus? ......

4. Why did the parents of Jesus take him 4. Why did the parents of Jesus take him to Egypt? ...... to Egypt? ...... (Matthew 2:13-14) ...... (Matthew 2:13-14) ......

5. When he was .... years old, Jesus and 5. When he was .... years old, Jesus and (Luke 2:41-42) his family went to ...... for the (Luke 2:41-42) his family went to ...... for the feast of the ...... feast of the ......

6. What was seen and heard at the 6. What was seen and heard at the (Luke 3:22) Baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan? (Luke 3:22) Baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan? Seen ...... Seen ...... Heard ...... Heard ......

7. What were the three temptations? 7. What were the three temptations? (Luke 4:1-3) 1...... (Luke 4:1-3) 1...... 2...... 2...... 3...... 3......

(Matthew 4:18) 8. Who were the first four disciples of (Matthew 4:18) 8. Who were the first four disciples of Jesus - His Life and Ministry Jesus - His Life and Ministry Jesus - His Life and Ministry Jesus? Jesus - His Life and Ministry Jesus? 1 ...... 2 ...... 3...... 4 ...... 1 ...... 2 ...... 3...... 4 ......

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The ministry of Jesus began after his temptations when he The ministry of Jesus began after his temptations when he was about thirty years old. was about thirty years old. We believe that our Lord’s ministry lasted about three years, We believe that our Lord’s ministry lasted about three years, because the Gospels record three annual visits to the feast because the Gospels record three annual visits to the feast of the ...... in the ...... at ...... of the ...... in the ...... at ...... after he began to teach. (John 2:13) after he began to teach. (John 2:13)

What does DISCIPLE mean? What does DISCIPLE mean?

...... I am the Way I am the Way SAYINGS MIRACLES SAYINGS MIRACLES

Some of the most famous sayings Some of the most famous sayings S S of Jesus about himself are the I AM These were signs of the power of God of Jesus about himself are the I AM These were signs of the power of God E E sayings in the Gospel of St John. and of his love and care for his people. sayings in the Gospel of St John. and of his love and care for his people. L L They were not pieces of magic but acts They were not pieces of magic but acts C C Fill in what Jesus says: of love to show that God is Creator and Fill in what Jesus says: of love to show that God is Creator and A A Sustainer of life and that we must put Sustainer of life and that we must put I am the ...... of ......

I am the ...... of ...... R R our whole trust in his goodness and our whole trust in his goodness and I I John 6:35 John 6:35 mercy. mercy. I am the ...... of the ...... I am the ...... of the ...... M M We see God’s love in action in the We see God’s love in action in the

John 8:12 John 8:12 miracle of the healing of Jairus’s miracle of the healing of Jairus’s d d I am the ...... I am the ...... daughter (Mark 5:21-24, 35-43). daughter (Mark 5:21-24, 35-43). n n John 10:14 John 10:14 a a I am the ...... I am the ......

Find three other miracles of Jesus: Find three other miracles of Jesus: John 11:25 John 11:25 S S I am the ...... and the 1...... I am the ...... and the 1...... E E ...... and the ...... and the ...... 2......

2...... L L John 14:6 John 14:6

B 3...... B 3...... I am the ...... I am the ...... see Mark 10:46-52, John 6:1-13, Luke 17:11-19 see Mark 10:46-52, John 6:1-13, Luke 17:11-19 A A John 15:5 John 15:5 R R The Transfiguration of the Lord (Jesus) is a The Transfiguration of the Lord (Jesus) is a A A PARABLES miracle wonderfully described in Mark 9:2-8. PARABLES miracle wonderfully described in Mark 9:2-8. P P

Read this story and fill the blank spaces below: Read this story and fill the blank spaces below: , , The parables are easily The parables are easily S S remembered stories about everyday In this story the Law was represented remembered stories about everyday In this story the Law was represented life, but they each have a deeper life, but they each have a deeper G G by ...... and the Prophets by ...... by ...... and the Prophets by ...... meaning. In the parable of the meaning. In the parable of the N N sower, the seed stands for the Word sower, the seed stands for the Word I I of God. Can you think of any other About the Law Jesus was quite clear: of God. Can you think of any other About the Law Jesus was quite clear: Y Y parables? Jesus said “Think not that I have come parables? Jesus said “Think not that I have come A A 1 ...... to ...... the ...... and 1 ...... to ...... the ...... and

S 2 ...... S 2 ...... the ...... I have not come to the ...... I have not come to 3 ...... 3 ...... abolish them but to ...... see Matthew 13:24-52 abolish them but to ...... see Matthew 13:24-52 (Matthew 5:17) (Matthew 5:17)

Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 9 Page 9 Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee MMoodduullee 55 Church in Wales 55 Church in Wales

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y y y y y y tt y y FFoorr FFoorrtt aanndd aanndd aayyss ayyss yy DD and began to...... utterance. DDa and began to...... utterance. rrtt (Acts 2:1-4) ttyy FFoo FFoorr (Acts 2:1-4) At the end of forty days Jesus Jesus had promised to sent the Holy At the end of forty days Jesus Jesus had promised to sent the Holy took his disciples up to a Spirit to give his followers strength and took his disciples up to a Spirit to give his followers strength and mountain top. This was the power to carry out his work, saying. “But mountain top. This was the power to carry out his work, saying. “But last time they were to see him the ...... last time they were to see him the ...... He told them , “...... you the ...... He told them , “...... you the ...... shall receive power when the all that I have said to you”. On the Day of shall receive power when the all that I have said to you”. On the Day of ...... has come Pentecost, Jesus kept that promise...... has come Pentecost, Jesus kept that promise. upon you; and you shall be (John 14:26) upon you; and you shall be (John 14:26) my ...... in...... my ...... in...... and ...... and to the and ...... and to the ...... of the ...... of the ...... (Acts 1:8) (Acts 1:8) What does the word ‘Pentecost’ mean? What does the word ‘Pentecost’ mean?

It is a Greek word meaning ‘the 50th Day’ and is It is a Greek word meaning ‘the 50th Day’ and is also the Greek name given to the Feast of Weeks. also the Greek name given to the Feast of Weeks. So called of course because the Holy Spirit came So called of course because the Holy Spirit came upon the Apostles and people as described in the upon the Apostles and people as described in the Bible, on the 50th day after the Passover. Bible, on the 50th day after the Passover. See Acts 2:1 - As the Holy Spirit descended this See Acts 2:1 - As the Holy Spirit descended this day, the name was applied by the Church to the day, the name was applied by the Church to the feast celebrating it and popularly called feast celebrating it and popularly called WhitSunday. WhitSunday. In much earlier times (c.300-400AD) the word In much earlier times (c.300-400AD) the word When he had said this he was Pentecost was also used for the whole period When he had said this he was Pentecost was also used for the whole period taken from their sight. Ten between Easter and Whitsunday, i.e Easter time. taken from their sight. Ten between Easter and Whitsunday, i.e Easter time. days later, when the day of days later, when the day of ...... had come, they ...... had come, they The Feast of Weeks was (is) a celebration of the The Feast of Weeks was (is) a celebration of the were all together in one place completion of the grain harvest. It was held on the were all together in one place completion of the grain harvest. It was held on the and suddenly a sound came 50th day after the offering of a barley sheaf at the and suddenly a sound came 50th day after the offering of a barley sheaf at the from like the Feast of Unleavened Bread (usually late spring, from heaven like the Feast of Unleavened Bread (usually late spring, ...... of a ...... early summer) - hence Pentecost...... of a ...... early summer) - hence Pentecost. This Jewish feast was later regarded as and it filled all the house and it filled all the house This Jewish feast was later regarded as commemorating the Giving of the Law to Moses commemorating the Giving of the Law to Moses where they were on Mount Sinai. where they were on Mount Sinai. sitting. And there appeared to sitting. And there appeared to them ...... Interesting to follow the meaning of words - and them ...... Interesting to follow the meaning of words - and as of ...... distributed sometimes we find that at other times they meant as of ...... distributed sometimes we find that at other times they meant something different!

Jesus - His Life and Ministr something different! Jesus - His Life and Ministr Jesus - His Life and Ministr and resting on each one of Jesus - His Life and Ministr and resting on each one of them. They were all ...... them. They were all ......

Page 10 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 10 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee MMoodduullee 5 Church in Wales 55 Church in Wales 5 PP aa ll mm SS uu nn dd aa yy ttoo PPeenntteeccoosstt PP aa ll mm SS uu nn dd aa yy ttoo PPeenntteeccoosstt

When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey the people waved When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey the people waved palms and greeted him with shouts of ...... palms and greeted him with shouts of ...... (Matthew 21:9) (Matthew 21:9)

When he had entered Jerusalem, Jesus went into the ...... When he had entered Jerusalem, Jesus went into the ...... and drove out all those who ...... and ...... there. and drove out all those who ...... and ...... there. Then he overturned the tables of the ...... and the seats Then he overturned the tables of the ...... and the seats of those who sold ...... He said to them, ‘It is written of those who sold ...... He said to them, ‘It is written ...... (Matthew 21:13) ...... (Matthew 21:13) While on this last visit to Jerusalem our Jesus was taken with two criminals to the While on this last visit to Jerusalem our Jesus was taken with two criminals to the Lord met with his disciples to eat the Place of the Skull, outside the city of Lord met with his disciples to eat the Place of the Skull, outside the city of Passover meal. During the meal he took Jerusalem, where he was crucified. Even Passover meal. During the meal he took Jerusalem, where he was crucified. Even bread and when he had given thanks he from the Cross, Jesus prayed for those bread and when he had given thanks he from the Cross, Jesus prayed for those broke it and said, “This is my ...... “ broke it and said, “This is my ...... “ who crucified him: Father. After three hours who crucified him: Father. After three hours When supper was ended he took the cup When supper was ended he took the cup he died, his last words being, “Father he died, his last words being, “Father and said, “This is my ...... ” and said, “This is my ...... ” ...... (Luke 22:19-20) (Luke 22:19-20) ...... Jesus was betrayed by one of his ...... Jesus was betrayed by one of his ...... disciples ...... Simon’s son. (John (Luke 23:34) disciples ...... Simon’s son. (John (Luke 23:34) 13 : 2) 13 : 2) After the Passover supper Jesus went Three days later some of his followers went After the Passover supper Jesus went Three days later some of his followers went with his disciples to the Mount of Olives to to the tomb to embalm his body. with his disciples to the Mount of Olives to to the tomb to embalm his body. pray. There he showed his willingness to When they arrived they found it was empty. pray. There he showed his willingness to When they arrived they found it was empty. serve his heavenly Father to the end. He They were met by two men dressed in serve his heavenly Father to the end. He They were met by two men dressed in said, “Father ...... white who asked: “Why do you seek the said, “Father ...... white who asked: “Why do you seek the be done.” be done.” ...... among the ...... “? ...... among the ...... “? (Luke 22:42) (Luke 22:42) (Luke 24:5) (Luke 24:5) Jesus was taken from the Mount of Olives Jesus was taken from the Mount of Olives by the Chief Priests and Officers of the Remember he told you ...... by the Chief Priests and Officers of the Remember he told you ...... Temple. He was taken to the High Priest ...... Temple. He was taken to the High Priest ...... and then to Pilate the Roman Governor...... and then to Pilate the Roman Governor...... King Herod also saw Jesus, but he gave (Luke Ch 23 V 6-7) King Herod also saw Jesus, but he gave (Luke Ch 23 V 6-7) him back to Pilate for judgment It was him back to Pilate for judgment It was Pilate who said “Behold nothing deserving Jesus appeared to his disciples on several Pilate who said “Behold nothing deserving Jesus appeared to his disciples on several of ...... I will ...... occasions during the forty days after his of ...... I will ...... occasions during the forty days after his and release him. (Luke 23:15-16) Resurrection. Thomas had doubted the and release him. (Luke 23:15-16) Resurrection. Thomas had doubted the But the crowd cried out “ ...... But the crowd cried out “ ...... Resurrection at first, so Jesus said to him: Resurrection at first, so Jesus said to him: ...... (Luke 23:21) ...... (Luke 23:21) “Put ...... and put ...... and “Put ...... and put ...... and place ...... Do not be place ...... Do not be faithless but believing.” . Thomas faithless but believing.” . Thomas answered: “My ...... and my ...... ” answered: “My ...... and my ...... ” (John 20:26-28) (John 20:26-28) Jesus - His Life and Ministry Jesus - His Life and Ministry Jesus - His Life and Ministry Jesus - His Life and Ministry

Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 11 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 11 Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee MMoodduullee 66 Church in Wales 66 Church in Wales TThhee CChhuurrcchh’’ ss CCoonncclluussiioonnss TThhee CChhuurrcchh’’ ss CCoonncclluussiioonnss y y y Last time we looked at the basic facts about,Jesus Christ. We y Last time we looked at the basic facts about,Jesus Christ. We saw that he is someone very special. This time we ask, “How is saw that he is someone very special. This time we ask, “How is he special?”, “Who is he?” and “What has he done for us? he special?”, “Who is he?” and “What has he done for us?

WHO IS HE? Some people say Jesus was a good man. WHO IS HE? Some people say Jesus was a good man. Othes say He was a good teacher, yet Othes say He was a good teacher, yet Write a few sentences entitled Write a few sentences entitled others say He was a prophet. Jesus others say He was a prophet. Jesus “What I believe about Jesus “What I believe about Jesus claimed to be something more. claimed to be something more. Christ”. Christ”. Complete the following sentence: Complete the following sentence: WhoWho dodo WhoWho dodo He who has seen ...... John 14:9 He who has seen ...... John 14:9 YOUYOU YOUYOU What does Jesus allow Thomas to call What does Jesus allow Thomas to call him:? him:? saysay II am?am? My ...... and my ...... John 20:28 saysay II am?am? My ...... and my ...... John 20:28

Say briefly what are the most Say briefly what are the most important things you believe important things you believe about him. about him.

In what way does each of In what way does each of these verses tell us that Jesus these verses tell us that Jesus was like every other human was like every other human being? being?

Matthew 2:1 ...... Matthew 2:1 ......

Matthew 4:2 ...... Matthew 4:2 ......

Although Jesus was tempted Although Jesus was tempted as we all are, in what way as we all are, in what way was He different from us? How is He special? was He different from us? How is He special?

Hebrews 4:15 ...... Look carefully at your last two answers. Hebrews 4:15 ...... Look carefully at your last two answers. Who or what do you think Jesus claimed Who or what do you think Jesus claimed to be? to be? ......

...... Jesus - His Life and Ministr Jesus - His Life and Ministr Jesus - His Life and Ministr Jesus - His Life and Ministr

Page 12 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 12 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee MMoodduullee Church in Wales 66 Church in Wales 66 WHAT HAS HE DONE FOR US? WHAT HAS HE DONE FOR US? According to 1 Peter 2:24 According to 1 Peter 2:24 what did Jesus do when he what did Jesus do when he y y y y died on the cross? died on the cross?

......

......

What difference can this What difference can this make to our lives? make to our lives?

......

......

Because Jesus rose again Because Jesus rose again from the dead, what is he from the dead, what is he able to promise to all who able to promise to all who believe in him? (John 6:40) believe in him? (John 6:40) Background Information Background Information ...... Jesus was born before the death of the King Jesus was born before the death of the King ...... named Herod the Great (4.B.C) but not more than ...... named Herod the Great (4.B.C) but not more than a few years before. a few years before. The history books do not have much information The history books do not have much information ...... about the person of Jesus...... about the person of Jesus. The main ones are a history written by a Roman The main ones are a history written by a Roman What did Jesus promise to do historian named Tacitus and a Jewish writer What did Jesus promise to do historian named Tacitus and a Jewish writer when he ascended to the named Josephus. when he ascended to the named Josephus. Both comprise no more than a few lines but we Both comprise no more than a few lines but we Father? (Counsellor and Spirit must not think that Jesus was not an important Father? (Counsellor and Spirit must not think that Jesus was not an important of Truth are both names for person because of the few bits of information. of Truth are both names for person because of the few bits of information. the Holy Spirit.) (John 15:26) The Roman Empire knew many problems and it the Holy Spirit.) (John 15:26) The Roman Empire knew many problems and it may well be that the revolts in the Holy Land may well be that the revolts in the Holy Land ...... were not all that important compared with others...... were not all that important compared with others. Jesus’ story is a story of a struggle as old as Jesus’ story is a story of a struggle as old as ...... humanity. But much more than that, a struggle to ...... humanity. But much more than that, a struggle to make humanity understand the implications of sin make humanity understand the implications of sin and a new start. and a new start. What difference can the Holy A new beginning for all through the death of an What difference can the Holy A new beginning for all through the death of an innocent person who literally took upon Himself innocent person who literally took upon Himself Spirit make to our lives? the sins of humanity. Spirit make to our lives? the sins of humanity. Galatians 5:22-24 We have been given a chance to make a Galatians 5:22-24 We have been given a chance to make a difference, a difference to the world. difference, a difference to the world...... We may not have to die on a cross but Christians We may not have to die on a cross but Christians ...... are to be a witness to one of the great events, if ...... are to be a witness to one of the great events, if Jesus - His Life and Ministr Jesus - His Life and Ministr Jesus - His Life and Ministr Jesus - His Life and Ministr not the greatest, this world has known. not the greatest, this world has known......

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The CREEDS Yes Lord, The CREEDS Yes Lord, I believe! I believe! You can find the Apostles’ Creed at the start of Section You can find the Apostles’ Creed at the start of Section II of Christian Belief - page 3 of the Catechism. II of Christian Belief - page 3 of the Catechism. From the beginning of the Church, Christians have used From the beginning of the Church, Christians have used creeds to list the main things they believe. The creeds to list the main things they believe. The Apostles’ Creed is probably the oldest one we have, Apostles’ Creed - A statement of faith Apostles’ Creed is probably the oldest one we have, Apostles’ Creed - A statement of faith and though it was not actually written by the apostles only used in the Western Church. and though it was not actually written by the apostles only used in the Western Church. themselves, it includes all the most important things It falls into three sections - concerned themselves, it includes all the most important things It falls into three sections - concerned they taught. This creed is said in Morning and Evening with God, Jesus Christ and the Holy they taught. This creed is said in Morning and Evening with God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Prayer (Matins and ) and the Nicene Creed Spirit. By the early the Prayer (Matins and Evensong) and the Nicene Creed Spirit. By the early Middle Ages the (which we shall study later and which comes next in the Apostles’ Creed was widely employed (which we shall study later and which comes next in the Apostles’ Creed was widely employed Catechism) and is used in the Holy Eucharist). at and during the early 9th Catechism) and is used in the Holy Eucharist). at baptisms and during the early 9th You should try to learn the Apostles’ Creed by heart. century found its place in the daily You should try to learn the Apostles’ Creed by heart. century found its place in the daily office. Creeds are used as a binding office. Creeds are used as a binding The Holy Trinity formulary of faith. The Holy Trinity formulary of faith. The chief thing we learn from the Creeds is the In churches where Evening Prayer is The chief thing we learn from the Creeds is the In churches where Evening Prayer is Doctrine of the Holy Trinity. The word Trinity is made still used, this Creed is said (BCP 1984) Doctrine of the Holy Trinity. The word Trinity is made still used, this Creed is said (BCP 1984) up of two shorter words: tri (which means three) and up of two shorter words: tri (which means three) and unity. It means that we believe in one God who is in unity. It means that we believe in one God who is in three Persons - Father, Son and Holy Spirit. three Persons - Father, Son and Holy Spirit. If you look at the Catechism you will see that the If you look at the Catechism you will see that the Apostles’Creed is in three sections. In each we begin by saying Apostles’Creed is in three sections. In each we begin by saying that we believe in one of the three persons of the Holy Trinity, that we believe in one of the three persons of the Holy Trinity, and then list some of the things we believe: and then list some of the things we believe: I believe in God, the Father I believe in God, the Father And in Jesus Christ And in Jesus Christ I believe in the Holy Spirit I believe in the Holy Spirit As Christians we believe in all three persons of the Trinity; and As Christians we believe in all three persons of the Trinity; and yet we believe they are only one God. Do not worry if you find Look up the following verses in the Bible yet we believe they are only one God. Do not worry if you find Look up the following verses in the Bible this difficult to understand. which tell us about the Holy Trinity and fill in this difficult to understand. which tell us about the Holy Trinity and fill in No-one has fully understood it. It is just the best way the Church the missing words: No-one has fully understood it. It is just the best way the Church the missing words: has found of expressing what Jesus taught about God. has found of expressing what Jesus taught about God. Hear 0 Israel, the Lord our God is Hear 0 Israel, the Lord our God is ...... Lord Mark 12:29 ...... Lord Mark 12:29

I and the Father are ...... John 10:30 I and the Father are ...... John 10:30

Now the Lord is ...... 2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is ...... 2 Corinthians 3:17

Go therefore and make disciples of all Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of nations, baptising them in the name of the ...... and of the ...... the ...... and of the ...... and of the ...... Matthew 28:19 and of the ...... Matthew 28:19

Page 14 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 14 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee 7 MMoodduullee Church in Wales 7 Church in Wales 77 The Creation The Creation Read Genesis 1:1-2 and John Read Genesis 1:1-2 and John 1:1-3. What do you think we 1:1-3. What do you think we mean when we say that God mean when we say that God is maker of heaven and is maker of heaven and earth? earth? ...... The Christian Hope ...... The Christian Hope ...... Answers to this section can be found in Answers to this section can be found in paragraphs 65-72 of the Catechism and in the ...... paragraphs 65-72 of the Catechism and in the ...... Bible. Bible.

The Creed tells us that Jesus will come again The theory of Evolution says that The Creed tells us that Jesus will come again The theory of Evolution says that in glory. life developed gradually into the complex state in glory. life developed gradually into the complex state we know today, by a combination of chance we know today, by a combination of chance Why do you think he needs to come? Para 66 and selection. Why do you think he needs to come? Para 66 and selection. As the climate changed, certain species When do you think this will be? Para 66 When do you think this will be? Para 66 As the climate changed, certain species survived and others died out. Do you think this survived and others died out. Do you think this What do you think Is meant when the Creed disagrees with what the Bible says? What do you think Is meant when the Creed disagrees with what the Bible says? says that Jesus will judge the quick (the And if so, why? says that Jesus will judge the quick (the And if so, why? living) and the dead? Para 67 living) and the dead? Para 67

What do you think Is meant by the resurrection of ...... What do you think Is meant by the resurrection of ...... the body? Para 68 the body? Para 68 ...... Who or what do you think the communion of Who or what do you think the communion of saints are? Para 70 ...... saints are? Para 70 ...... What is promised to those who believe in Jesus What is promised to those who believe in Jesus Christ? John 3:16 ...... Christ? John 3:16 ......

When do you think this gift is given us? Para 71 ...... When do you think this gift is given us? Para 71 ...... (The Catechism is available from Church in (The Catechism is available from Church in Wales Publications, 39 Cathedral Road, ...... Wales Publications, 39 Cathedral Road, CARDIFF, CF11 9XF, tel 029 2034 8259 - £3.50) CARDIFF, CF11 9XF, tel 029 2034 8259 - £3.50) ......

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What is the Bible? What is the Bible? What is the Bible? What is the Bible? The word ‘Bible’ is derived from the Copy out paragraph 40 of The word ‘Bible’ is derived from the Copy out paragraph 40 of Greek word ‘biblia’ which means the Catechism...... Greek word ‘biblia’ which means the Catechism...... books. books. Indeed the Bible is a collection of What does the word Indeed the Bible is a collection of What does the word books or writings usually known as Testament mean? books or writings usually known as Testament mean? Scriptures...... Scriptures...... Encompassing the Old Testament, Encompassing the Old Testament, New Testament and sometimes the Whose birth divides the New Testament and sometimes the Whose birth divides the Apocrypha ( a small collection of Old and New Apocrypha ( a small collection of Old and New writings received by the early Testaments? ...... writings received by the early Testaments? ...... Church as part of the Greek version Church as part of the Greek version of the Old Testament but not The Christian life is a growing friendship with of the Old Testament but not The Christian life is a growing friendship with included in the Hebrew Bible). Jesus Christ. For a friendship to grow, the friends included in the Hebrew Bible). Jesus Christ. For a friendship to grow, the friends (Apocrypha = Hidden) must speak to each other. We can speak to (Apocrypha = Hidden) must speak to each other. We can speak to Jesus in prayer. He can speak to us through Jesus in prayer. He can speak to us through prayer, through other people and through his prayer, through other people and through his Word, the Bible. Every Christian should set aside Word, the Bible. Every Christian should set aside at least a few minutes every day for prayer, and to at least a few minutes every day for prayer, and to Genesis read a short portion of the Bible. Genesis read a short portion of the Bible.

The Bible, containing the Old and the New The Bible, containing the Old and the New Testaments, is really a library of books giving us a Testaments, is really a library of books giving us a record of the relationship between God and record of the relationship between God and The Old Testament describes mankind over hundreds of years. The Old Testament describes mankind over hundreds of years. occurrences as far back as The Old Testament contains a large part of the occurrences as far back as The Old Testament contains a large part of the c.1200BC and depicts the struggle history of the race, nation or people from which c.1200BC and depicts the struggle history of the race, nation or people from which of the Hebrews (Jewish people of Jesus came. Can you find three different names of the Hebrews (Jewish people of Jesus came. Can you find three different names ancient times) to come to terms with for them? ancient times) to come to terms with for them? the idea of a single God, this is the idea of a single God, this is known as ‘monotheism’. The New 1 ...... 2 ...... known as ‘monotheism’. The New 1 ...... 2 ...... Testament describes the life (in Testament describes the life (in part) of the Messiah - Jesus Christ, 3 ...... part) of the Messiah - Jesus Christ, 3 ...... and the early days after the and the early days after the Crucifixion . The very earliest history of these people is not Crucifixion . The very earliest history of these people is not Also important are the writings of St known, so the writer of some of the books in the Also important are the writings of St known, so the writer of some of the books in the Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles. Old Testament tried to explain the things that Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles. Old Testament tried to explain the things that (Gentiles - people of non-Jewish puzzled them. For example, they were certain that (Gentiles - people of non-Jewish puzzled them. For example, they were certain that origin, usually meant the Greek world). God had created the world, but they did not know origin, usually meant the Greek world). God had created the world, but they did not know how this had come about, and so we have the how this had come about, and so we have the story of the creation as they thought it had story of the creation as they thought it had The Bible versions in use happened in the book of Genesis. The Bible versions in use happened in the book of Genesis. NRSV - New Revised Standard After the time of Abraham,the story of God’s NRSV - New Revised Standard After the time of Abraham,the story of God’s RSV - Revised Standard chosen people becomes more of an historical RSV - Revised Standard chosen people becomes more of an historical NEB - New English Bible (1961) account. Can you find the names of two of the NEB - New English Bible (1961) account. Can you find the names of two of the DB - Dramatised Bible books which give us some of the history? DB - Dramatised Bible books which give us some of the history? NIV - New International Version NIV - New International Version KJV - 1 ...... 2 ...... KJV - King James Version 1 ...... 2 ...... AV - Authorised Version (1611) AV - Authorised Version (1611) The Bible - What is it? JB - Jerusalem Bible The Bible - What is it? JB - Jerusalem Bible The list is not exhaustive as there The list is not exhaustive as there are British and American versions are British and American versions with or without the Apocrypha. with or without the Apocrypha.

The Bible is one of the most The Bible is one of the most widely read books in the world. widely read books in the world.

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God made a covenant, or The first four books of the God made a covenant, or The first four books of the agreement with the chosen New Testament are called the agreement with the chosen New Testament are called the people that he would be ...... people that he would be ...... their God who would guard their God who would guard and protect them if they because they tell us the good and protect them if they because they tell us the good obeyed his laws. Can you news of Jesus. obeyed his laws. Can you news of Jesus. name the famous set of What is the name of the name the famous set of What is the name of the laws which were given to fifth book in the New Y Beibl The Bible laws which were given to fifth book in the New Y Beibl The Bible Moses? Testament which comes Moses? Testament which comes after the good news after the good news books? books? ...... This book tells us This book tells us ! about the work of ! about the work of Jesus’ followers Jesus’ followers e e l after his earthly life, l after his earthly life, as they began to The last book of the Bible is quite different as they began to The last book of the Bible is quite different u build up the early u from the others. Write down its name: build up the early from the others. Write down its name: Church...... Church...... R We learn much about R We learn much about

The ...... the early Christians The ...... the early Christians from the letters written The following verses tell us something from the letters written The following verses tell us something s Name one of the books in by Saint Paul to some s about how important the Bible is. Name one of the books in by Saint Paul to some about how important the Bible is. the Old Testament in which the Old Testament in which e of the Churches he e Copy them out: of the Churches he Copy them out: l you find them: founded. The Letter to l you find them: founded. The Letter to t ...... t ...... the Romans was written 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - Psalms 119:105 the Romans was written 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - Psalms 119:105 to the Church at Rome. to the Church at Rome. s s Can you find out the name Some Bibles call these Can you find out the name Some Bibles call these o of the Old Testament book letters Epistles. Can you o of the Old Testament book letters Epistles. Can you which contains 150 songs find out four other JustJust readread thethe which contains 150 songs find out four other JustJust readread thethe p or poems which tell us Churches to whom p or poems which tell us Churches to whom something of this special Saint Paul wrote something of this special Saint Paul wrote A relationship or covenant letters? A GoodGood News!News! relationship or covenant letters? GoodGood News!News! with God? 1 ...... with God? 1 ...... 2 ...... 2 ...... The Book of ...... The Book of ...... 3 ...... 3 ...... There were many times 4 ...... There were many times 4 ...... when God’s chosen people when God’s chosen people did not keep their Some of the other letters in the New did not keep their Some of the other letters in the New agreement with him. Testament were written for agreement with him. Testament were written for From time to time he sent Churches everywhere and are From time to time he sent Churches everywhere and are men called prophets to named after the people who wrote men called prophets to named after the people who wrote remind his people of their them. Can you find the name of two remind his people of their them. Can you find the name of two rôle, and also to prepare of these letters? rôle, and also to prepare of these letters? them for the coming of the them for the coming of the Messiah. Some of the 1 ...... Messiah. Some of the 1 ...... prophets wrote books which 2 ...... prophets wrote books which 2 ...... are in the Old Testament Discussion - What do you find interesting in the are in the Old Testament Discussion - What do you find interesting in the Can you name three of Prayer - Thank you God for loving me Bible? Do you think it is a reliable historical Can you name three of Prayer - Thank you God for loving me Bible? Do you think it is a reliable historical them? just as I am. Grant me the courage to document(s)? them? just as I am. Grant me the courage to document(s)? continue on the path that I have chosen Do you think that all the translations of the Bible continue on the path that I have chosen Do you think that all the translations of the Bible 1 ...... and help me to shed my negative 1 ...... and help me to shed my negative 2 ...... attitudes, that prevent me from seeing over the last few hundred years have detracted 2 ...... attitudes, that prevent me from seeing over the last few hundred years have detracted 3 ...... the way. Amen from its value and impact? 3 ...... the way. Amen from its value and impact?

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The Lord’s Prayer The Lord’s Prayer People of the Old Testament prayed. Jesus found People of the Old Testament prayed. Jesus found it necessary to pray. You almost certainly know it necessary to pray. You almost certainly know the prayer he taught his disciples. Look for it in the prayer he taught his disciples. Look for it in Matthew 6:9-13. It is also in paragraph 39 of the Matthew 6:9-13. It is also in paragraph 39 of the Prayer Catechism. You ought to know it off by heart. Prayer Catechism. You ought to know it off by heart. Three ways of Praying Three ways of Praying 1. Personal (Private) Prayer 1. Personal (Private) Prayer It has been said, “They pray together best who It has been said, “They pray together best who What is Prayer? first have prayed alone” Personal prayer amounts What is Prayer? first have prayed alone” Personal prayer amounts to prayers in the morning, thanking God for a ...... a list of requests made to a list of requests made to to prayers in the morning, thanking God for a It is not peaceful night, and at other times of the day, such It is not ...... peaceful night, and at other times of the day, such God or a one-sided as the evening. It is something between you and God or a one-sided as the evening. It is something between you and conversation. God. You can also pray privately, quickly at any conversation. God. You can also pray privately, quickly at any time of the day and in any place; such as when It is ...... a two-way communication, It is ...... a two-way communication, time of the day and in any place; such as when waiting in a queue, sitting in a waiting room waiting in a queue, sitting in a waiting room like a talk between two (without getting on your knees). Pray for the like a talk between two (without getting on your knees). Pray for the friends who take it in turns to people around you (much better than getting friends who take it in turns to people around you (much better than getting impatient). Also you can use Arrow Prayers: talk and to listen. They share talk and to listen. They share impatient). Also you can use Arrow Prayers: “Please God, help!.” or “Father I’m sad, help me “Please God, help!.” or “Father I’m sad, help me joys, they make requests, to cheer upl” These prayers work! joys, they make requests, to cheer upl” These prayers work! they trust each other. Write down a few examples of Arrow Prayers that they trust each other. Write down a few examples of Arrow Prayers that you could use. Make them simple and to the you could use. Make them simple and to the point. point. If you look at your left hand it will help you to learn the five impor If you look at your left hand it will help you to learn the five impor tant aspects of prayer. Use a synonym - ACTS 1 tant aspects of prayer. Use a synonym - ACTS 1

1. ADORATION 1. ADORATION We adore God. We love him greatly because he is God and only We adore God. We love him greatly because he is God and only he is worthy of praise. he is worthy of praise. Thumbs up! He is great Thumbs up! He is great

2. 2. CONFESSION Lord, I am sorry. We feel awkward in God’s sight because of the Lord, I am sorry. We feel awkward in God’s sight because of the wrong thing wrong thing we have done and the good things we failed to do because of we have done and the good things we failed to do because of laziness or shyness. laziness or shyness. The next finger is the one most difficult to control., like ourselves. 2. Group Prayer The next finger is the one most difficult to control., like ourselves. 2. Group Prayer It reminds us of our weakness. Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered It reminds us of our weakness. Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there I am in the midst of together in my name, there I am in the midst of 3. THANKSGIVING them.” More Christians these days are finding the 3. THANKSGIVING them.” More Christians these days are finding the We say thank you to God for what he has done for us in creation, We say thank you to God for what he has done for us in creation, value of praying in small groups - house value of praying in small groups - house in keeping us and all things, and for all the blessings of life. in keeping us and all things, and for all the blessings of life. groups. To the group they bring their needs, Our forefinger points to God, the giver of all good things. Our forefinger points to God, the giver of all good things. groups. To the group they bring their needs, thanksgivings, fears, joys. The small group is also thanksgivings, fears, joys. The small group is also a place where problems (or joys or sorrows) of life a place where problems (or joys or sorrows) of life 4. SUPPLICATION can be discussed against the background of 4. SUPPLICATION can be discussed against the background of We ask for ourselves last of all. prayer. We ask for ourselves last of all. prayer. Our little finger reminds us of our littleness, not of our great Our little finger reminds us of our littleness, not of our great importance. May our requests be simple. importance. May our requests be simple. 3. Public Prayer 3. Public Prayer 5. INTERCESSION This is with the Church gathered together for 5. INTERCESSION This is with the Church gathered together for worship - the Holy Eucharist, or Morning or We ask God’s help for others. This takes up quite a lot of time in We ask God’s help for others. This takes up quite a lot of time in worship - the Holy Eucharist, or Morning or prayer. Evening Prayer. It is vital that the Church prays prayer. Evening Prayer. It is vital that the Church prays The middle finger is the biggest finger and reminds us of the hard together in public worship. The middle finger is the biggest finger and reminds us of the hard together in public worship. work of intercession. See Hebrews 10:24-25 and Acts 2:42. work of intercession. See Hebrews 10:24-25 and Acts 2:42. Copy out one of these verses and discuss later. Copy out one of these verses and discuss later.

Page 18 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 18 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee MMoodduullee Church in Wales 99 Church in Wales 99

3 3 Thick Finger Thick Finger 4 4 Most Awkward 2 Most Awkward 2 Points Points Try to remember the five 5 Try to remember the five 5 Smallest Finger aspects of prayer from Smallest Finger aspects of prayer from the other side of this the other side of this sheet, using the clues sheet, using the clues on the fingers to help on the fingers to help you, and fill in the chart 1 you, and fill in the chart 1 below with their names. Binds Hands Together below with their names. Binds Hands Together

1...... 1......

2 ...... 2 ......

3 ...... 3 ......

4 ...... 4 ......

5 ...... 5 ......

TTrryy WWrriittiinngg YYoouurr OOwwnn PPrraayyeerrss TTrryy WWrriittiinngg YYoouurr OOwwnn PPrraayyeerrss The only real way to learn about prayer is to pray. The only real way to learn about prayer is to pray. Make up a short prayer of each of the five types we have mentioned. Make up a short prayer of each of the five types we have mentioned.

Adoration ...... Adoration ...... Thanksgiving ...... Thanksgiving ......

Intercession ...... Intercession ......

Confession ...... Confession ......

Supplication ...... Supplication ......

Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 19 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 19 Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee MMoodduullee 1100 Church in Wales 1100 Church in Wales

Whatt IIS a Sacramentt? Whatt IIS a Sacramentt?

We use lots of signs and symbols in We use lots of signs and symbols in daily life, often without thinking daily life, often without thinking about them. Shaking hands is a about them. Shaking hands is a sign of friendship, putting your sign of friendship, putting your s finger to your lips is a way of asking s finger to your lips is a way of asking for quiet, and giving someone a red for quiet, and giving someone a red t rose is a sign of love. Think of some t rose is a sign of love. Think of some more everyday symbols: more everyday symbols: n is a symbol of n is a symbol of e is a symbol of e is a symbol of

is a symbol of is a symbol of m m When you think about it, you will find that most signs and symbols don’t just tell us When you think about it, you will find that most signs and symbols don’t just tell us something, they also achieve something. When a cyclist holds out his left hand, he isn’t something, they also achieve something. When a cyclist holds out his left hand, he isn’t just telling the driver behind that he is turning left, it also makes that driver slow down so just telling the driver behind that he is turning left, it also makes that driver slow down so a a that the vehicle he is driving won’t run into the back of the cyclist. A handshake is not only that the vehicle he is driving won’t run into the back of the cyclist. A handshake is not only a sign of friendship, but also the means by which the friendship is sealed. Write out what a sign of friendship, but also the means by which the friendship is sealed. Write out what r you think the three symbols you thought of may achieve: r you think the three symbols you thought of may achieve: c c a a S S

Baptism and the Holy Eucharist are two special Baptism and the Holy Eucharist are two special signs or symbols which Jesus himself has told us signs or symbols which Jesus himself has told us e to use. The name which we give to these special e to use. The name which we give to these special signs is SACRAMENTS. There are also five other signs is SACRAMENTS. There are also five other of these sacraments, and like all signs and of these sacraments, and like all signs and h symbols, they all symbolise something and h symbols, they all symbolise something and achieve something. Turn to paragraph 43 of the achieve something. Turn to paragraph 43 of the Cathechism which explains what a sacrament is. Cathechism which explains what a sacrament is. T Copy out the paragraph below: T Copy out the paragraph below:

Turn to paragraph 44 of the Catechism and write in the missing Turn to paragraph 44 of the Catechism and write in the missing words: words: The two parts of a sacrament are the ...... and ...... The two parts of a sacrament are the ...... and ......

sign and the ...... and ...... grace. sign and the ...... and ...... grace.

Page 20 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 20 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee 10 MMoodduullee Church in Wales 10 Church in Wales 1100 TThhee OOtthheerr SSaaccrraammeennttaall RRiitteess TThhee OOtthheerr SSaaccrraammeennttaall RRiitteess

Baptism, and the Holy Eucharist are so important that they will be dealt with fully in later sections, Baptism, and the Holy Eucharist are so important that they will be dealt with fully in later sections, as will Confirmation. We shall now look at the other Sacraments. as will Confirmation. We shall now look at the other Sacraments. What are the other Sacramental rites listed in paragraph 56 of the Catechism? What are the other Sacramental rites listed in paragraph 56 of the Catechism?

1 1

2 2

3 3

4 4

5 5 OOrrddiinnaattiioonn OOrrddiinnaattiioonn

Fill in the gaps in this paragaph from section 59 of the Catechism Fill in the gaps in this paragaph from section 59 of the Catechism about the Sacrament of Ordination: about the Sacrament of Ordination:

Ordination is the rite which God gives ...... and the grace Ordination is the rite which God gives ...... and the grace of the ...... to those being made of the ...... to those being made bishops, through prayer and the laying on of bands by bishops. bishops, through prayer and the laying on of bands by bishops. This is the sign that has always been used since the time of the This is the sign that has always been used since the time of the Apostles, and is one of the things we mean when we say the Apostles, and is one of the things we mean when we say the ‘Apostolic Church’ in the Creed. ‘Apostolic Church’ in the Creed.

Can you think of four people you have met who have been Can you think of four people you have met who have been ordained? ordained? 1 ...... 2 ...... 1 ...... 2 ......

3 ...... 4 ...... 3 ...... 4 ...... HHoollyy MMaattrriimmoonnyy HHoollyy MMaattrriimmoonnyy

Fill in the gaps in this statement from paragraph 60 of the Fill in the gaps in this statement from paragraph 60 of the Catechism about the sacrament of Holy Matrimony: Catechism about the sacrament of Holy Matrimony:

Holy Matrimony is a life-long union, instituted by God, into which Holy Matrimony is a life-long union, instituted by God, into which a man and a woman enter. Christians make their vows before a man and a woman enter. Christians make their vows before ...... and the ...... and receive the ...... and the ...... and receive the ...... and ...... of God to help them fulfil their ...... and ...... of God to help them fulfil their ......

The ring or rings which are exchanged are signs of The ring or rings which are exchanged are signs of love. They are made of gold, the most precious metal, love. They are made of gold, the most precious metal, and they are circles without an end as a symbol of a and they are circles without an end as a symbol of a love which lasts forever. love which lasts forever.

Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 21 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 21 Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee MMoodduullee 1111 Church in Wales 1111 Church in Wales WHAT IS BAPTISM? REPENTANCE AND FAITH WHAT IS BAPTISM? REPENTANCE AND FAITH To consider this week’s answers, you will need to To consider this week’s answers, you will need to Sometimes also known as refer to paragraphs 1-7 and 46-49 of the Sometimes also known as refer to paragraphs 1-7 and 46-49 of the ‘Christening’ it is the sacramental Catechism. There will also be verses from the ‘Christening’ it is the sacramental Catechism. There will also be verses from the rite which admits a candidate to the Bible to help you. rite which admits a candidate to the Bible to help you. Christian Church. Christians follow Christian Church. Christians follow the practice after the example of In Acts 2:38 Saint Peter speaks to people who the practice after the example of In Acts 2:38 Saint Peter speaks to people who Jesus Christ’s baptism in the Jordan want to become Christians. What two things did Jesus Christ’s baptism in the Jordan want to become Christians. What two things did by John the Baptist. he tell them to do? by John the Baptist. he tell them to do? However baptism is not strictly a However baptism is not strictly a Christian rite as many faiths, sects What do you mean when you say ‘I REPENT’? Christian rite as many faiths, sects What do you mean when you say ‘I REPENT’? and others have similar rites. and others have similar rites. What is promised to us in the Bible if we confess What is promised to us in the Bible if we confess our sins to God? (1 John 1:9) our sins to God? (1 John 1:9)

In Acts 16:30-33 St Paul speaks to a jailor who In Acts 16:30-33 St Paul speaks to a jailor who wishes to become a Christian. wishes to become a Christian. What does he tell him to What does he tell him to do before baptism? do before baptism?

In your own words, In your own words, Now read paragraph 46-48 of the what do you think Now read paragraph 46-48 of the what do you think Catechism and fill in the gaps: FAITH is? Catechism and fill in the gaps: FAITH is? What is the What is the Baptism is the sacrament in which, difference between Baptism is the sacrament in which, difference between through the action of the ...... believing that Jesus is through the action of the ...... believing that Jesus is ...... we are ...... THE SAVIOUR, and in ...... we are ...... THE SAVIOUR, and in Holy Holy or made ...... believing that Jesus is MY or made ...... believing that Jesus is MY SAVIOUR? SAVIOUR? What is the outward and visible sign What is the outward and visible sign in Baptism? ...... What three things are required of persons to be in Baptism? ...... What three things are required of persons to be in which the person is ...... baptised? (Catechism, paragraph 49). in which the person is ...... baptised? (Catechism, paragraph 49). in the name of ...... in the name of ...... If you have already been baptised, you will have If you have already been baptised, you will have What is the inward and spiritual gift godparents? What are their names? What is the inward and spiritual gift godparents? What are their names? in Baptism? ...... in Baptism? ...... with Christ in his ...... and Together with your parents, what did your with Christ in his ...... and Together with your parents, what did your ...... , the ...... godparents promise for you? (Catechism, ...... , the ...... godparents promise for you? (Catechism, and a new ...... the paragraph 4). and a new ...... the paragraph 4). Church. Church. Why do you need godparents? Why do you need godparents?

What did God do for you in your Baptism? What did God do for you in your Baptism? (Catechism, paragraph 3) (Catechism, paragraph 3)

What did God make me in my baptism? What did God make me in my baptism?

The above questions may be answered during a The above questions may be answered during a discussion but have your Bible and the Catechism discussion but have your Bible and the Catechism with you so that you can refer to them. with you so that you can refer to them. It will be advisable prior to this week’s paper to It will be advisable prior to this week’s paper to read the relevant Bible passages and the read the relevant Bible passages and the paragraphs mentioned in the Catechism. paragraphs mentioned in the Catechism.

Page 22 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 22 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 23 Page M M o o d d u u l l e Confirmation e 1 1 2 2 communicant Christian. you fullyintendtobeanactive promises ofconfirmationunless God. You shouldnotmakethe serious tobreakpromises serious trouble.Itisevenmore breaks hispromisesheisin faithfulness toJesus.Ifasoldier confirmation promisesareof Queen andtohisofficers. The promises offaithfulnesstothe the armyhehastomake yourself. Whenasoldierjoins you willmakethesepromisesfor promises foryou.Inconfirmation parents andgodparentsmade youwerebaptised your When The Promises Church in Wales in Church Confirmation Course Confirmation their decision,itis because yourfriendsarebeingconfirmed.Itisnot confirmed becauseyourparentswantitor make andwhatisinvolved.Itwrongtobe important tounderstandthepromisesyouwill be confirmed.Itisabigdecision,andit One decisionyoushouldmakeforyourselfisto to makeimportantdecisionsforourselves. adolescence. Duringtheseyearswebegin between beingachildandanadult these forthemselves.We callthetime looks afterthem. Adults decidethingslike made forthembytheirparentsorwhoever when togetuporgobed. They are important decisions-wheretheylive, adults isthatchildrendonotmake One difference betweenchildrenand Holy Spirit who who Spirit Holy his in trust and who Christ Jesus Son his in trust life? all made and you who God in and trust believe you Do sins? of your repent you Do the by asked be will you questions the are Here gives life to you and and you to life gives and you redeemed Bishop: Do you believe and and believe you Do evil? reject you Do all the people of God? of people the all mankind? all Do you turn to Christ? Christ? to turn you Do Do you believe believe you Do Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Confirmation Module 18 Wales in Church yours . I turn toChrist. I reject evil. I reject in him. I believeandtrust I repentofmysins. in him I believeandtrust in him. I believeandtrust Page 23 Page M M o o d d u u l l e Confirmation e 1 1 2 2 communicant Christian. you fullyintendtobeanactive promises ofconfirmationunless God. You shouldnotmakethe serious tobreakpromises serious trouble.Itisevenmore breaks hispromisesheisin faithfulness toJesus.Ifasoldier confirmation promisesareof Queen andtohisofficers. The promises offaithfulnesstothe the armyhehastomake yourself. Whenasoldierjoins you willmakethesepromisesfor promises foryou.Inconfirmation parents andgodparentsmade youwerebaptised your When The Promises Church in Wales in Church Confirmation Course Confirmation Holy Spirit who who Spirit Holy his in trust and who Christ Jesus Son his in trust life? all made and you who God in and trust believe you Do sins? of your repent you Do the by asked be will you questions the are Here their decision,itis because yourfriendsarebeingconfirmed.Itisnot confirmed becauseyourparentswantitor make andwhatisinvolved.Itwrongtobe important tounderstandthepromisesyouwill be confirmed.Itisabigdecision,andit One decisionyoushouldmakeforyourselfisto to makeimportantdecisionsforourselves. adolescence. Duringtheseyearswebegin between beingachildandanadult these forthemselves.We callthetime looks afterthem. Adults decidethingslike made forthembytheirparentsorwhoever when togetuporgobed. They are important decisions-wheretheylive, adults isthatchildrendonotmake One difference betweenchildrenand gives life to you and and you to life gives and you redeemed Bishop: Do you believe and and believe you Do evil? reject you Do all the people of God? of people the all mankind? all Do you turn to Christ? Christ? to turn you Do Do you believe believe you Do Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Confirmation Module 18 Wales in Church yours . I turn toChrist. I reject evil. I reject in him. I believeandtrust I repentofmysins. in him I believeandtrust in him. I believeandtrust Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee 12 MMoodduullee Church in Wales 12 Church in Wales 1122

What do you think the word Here are some questions to see how well What do you think the word Here are some questions to see how well confirm means? you understand these promises: confirm means? you understand these promises:

Does it mean to make What does it mean when we say that we Does it mean to make What does it mean when we say that we something valid i.e a promise? turn to Christ? something valid i.e a promise? turn to Christ? Does it mean to firm your ...... Does it mean to firm your ...... resolve? ...... resolve? ...... Does it mean to ratify? (i.e an ...... Does it mean to ratify? (i.e an ...... oath or treaty). oath or treaty). Or can it mean all of these? What does repent mean? Or can it mean all of these? What does repent mean? ...... Please feel free to discuss...... Please feel free to discuss......

What is the difference between believing What is the difference between believing and trusting? and trusting? ......

What do you think redeemed means? What do you think redeemed means? ......

What do we mean when we say that the What do we mean when we say that the Holy Spirit gives life to everyone? Holy Spirit gives life to everyone? ...... Confirmation means deciding to ...... Confirmation means deciding to ...... follow Jesus Christ. follow Jesus Christ. In Luke 14:28-30 Jesus tells a For how long do we make the In Luke 14:28-30 Jesus tells a For how long do we make the parable to those who are making up Confirmation promises? parable to those who are making up Confirmation promises? their minds whether to follow him...... their minds whether to follow him...... What lesson do you think this What lesson do you think this parable should teach us? parable should teach us? Once you have made your promises the Church Once you have made your promises the Church accepts you into full communicant status. This accepts you into full communicant status. This means you are welcome to receive Holy means you are welcome to receive Holy Communion. The Bishop confirms you to show Communion. The Bishop confirms you to show that the Church into which you have been that the Church into which you have been welcomed is not just the local Church, but the welcomed is not just the local Church, but the whole Church of Christ throughout the world, of whole Church of Christ throughout the world, of which he is the representative. which he is the representative. You will be confirmed one or two at a time. You You will be confirmed one or two at a time. You will come forward and kneel before the Bishop will come forward and kneel before the Bishop who will lay his hands on your head as he says: who will lay his hands on your head as he says: Confirm, Lord, your servant (name) with your Confirm, Lord, your servant (name) with your Confirmation heavenly grace, that he/she may continue Confirmation heavenly grace, that he/she may continue yours for ever, and daily increase in your Holy yours for ever, and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more until he/she comes to Spirit more and more until he/she comes to your everlasting kingdom. your everlasting kingdom.

And you answer, Amen. And you answer, Amen.

Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 24 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 24 Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee MMoodduullee 1133 Church in Wales 1133 Church in Wales TThhee HHoollyy EEuucchhaarriisstt TThhee HHoollyy EEuucchhaarriisstt What is that? Is it important? What is that? Is it important? Our main act of worship is Like Baptism the Holy Eucharist is a Our main act of worship is Like Baptism the Holy Eucharist is a the Holy Eucharist. The Sacrament given to us by Jesus the Holy Eucharist. The Sacrament given to us by Jesus word Eucharist means himself. The earliest account of how word Eucharist means himself. The earliest account of how Thanksgiving. The service Jesus did this comes from St Paul’s Thanksgiving. The service Jesus did this comes from St Paul’s is our offering of praise and First Letter to the Corinthians which is our offering of praise and First Letter to the Corinthians which thanksgiving for all that God was written earlier than the thanksgiving for all that God was written earlier than the has done for us through his Gospels. Read it, and then answer has done for us through his Gospels. Read it, and then answer Find paragraph 36 of the Cathechism and fill in Find paragraph 36 of the Cathechism and fill in Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. the questions: (1 Cor 11:23-26). Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. the questions: (1 Cor 11:23-26). the blanks. the blanks. There are other names for There are other names for the Holy Eucharist which What words that Jesus uses twice the Holy Eucharist which What words that Jesus uses twice Worship is my response to God’s ...... Worship is my response to God’s ...... remind us of different in these verses tell us to repeat remind us of different in these verses tell us to repeat First, by joining with others in the Church’s First, by joining with others in the Church’s aspects of the service: what he did at the Last Supper? aspects of the service: what he did at the Last Supper? corporate offering of corporate offering of ...... THE LORD’S SUPPER THE LORD’S SUPPER celebration of the ...... and reading his celebration of the ...... and reading his This reminds us that we are This reminds us that we are ...... holy ...... holy ...... invited to this special meal A Sacrament both symbolises invited to this special meal A Sacrament both symbolises by our Lord Jesus Christ by our Lord Jesus Christ something and achieves something. Secondly, by acknowledging him as the Lord of something and achieves something. Secondly, by acknowledging him as the Lord of himself. himself. What are symbolised by the my life, and by ...... What are symbolised by the my life, and by ...... Bread? Bread? THE BREAKING OF BREAD THE BREAKING OF BREAD ...... Why do we keep Sunday as the chief day of ...... Why do we keep Sunday as the chief day of This reminds us of one of This reminds us of one of public worship? (Paragraph 37) public worship? (Paragraph 37) the actions done by Jesus at ...... the actions done by Jesus at ...... the Last Supper. the Last Supper...... HOLY COMMUNION HOLY COMMUNION ...... This reminds us that we are This reminds us that we are brought closer in our union brought closer in our union What does Jesus promise to do when we come What does Jesus promise to do when we come with God and with our fellow with God and with our fellow together to worship him? (Paragraph 50) together to worship him? (Paragraph 50) Christians. Christians...... THE LITURGY THE LITURGY This reminds us that we do This reminds us that we do this in obedience to our Come to the Eucharist - if you intend to be this in obedience to our Come to the Eucharist - if you intend to be Lord’s command. confirmed you should be coming regularly. Lord’s command. confirmed you should be coming regularly. Look carefully at what happens, and if Look carefully at what happens, and if THE MASS there is anything you do not understand or THE MASS there is anything you do not understand or This recalls our Lord’s would like to ask about, make a note of it This recalls our Lord’s would like to ask about, make a note of it sacrifice for us and our sacrifice for us and our offering up our lives to his and ask during the next meeting! offering up our lives to his and ask during the next meeting! service. service. Note: In Acts 2:42-46 we read that the very early Note: In Acts 2:42-46 we read that the very early Christian Church already ‘broke bread’ and prayed. Christian Church already ‘broke bread’ and prayed. Also St Paul visited Troas* (Acts 20:7) and there all Also St Paul visited Troas* (Acts 20:7) and there all ‘broke bread’. The way these are described leaves no ‘broke bread’. The way these are described leaves no doubt that a service had taken place, a general doubt that a service had taken place, a general thanksgiving including prayers. The breaking of bread thanksgiving including prayers. The breaking of bread i.e the sharing out, commemorated the Last Supper in i.e the sharing out, commemorated the Last Supper in which Christ himself broke bread and blessed it. which Christ himself broke bread and blessed it. *Troas ( a in NW Asia Minor - now part of Turkey). *Troas ( a town in NW Asia Minor - now part of Turkey).

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Paragraph 50 of the Catechism tells us Paragraph 50 of the Catechism tells us that the Holy Eucharist is the Sacrament that the Holy Eucharist is the Sacrament commanded by Christ for the continual commanded by Christ for the continual ...... of his ...... , ...... of his ...... , ...... and ...... until his coming again. and ...... until his coming again.

What is achieved by the sacrament of the Holy What is achieved by the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist is that we are able to meet with Jesus in a Eucharist is that we are able to meet with Jesus in a very special way and are able to share in his life - the very special way and are able to share in his life - the new life he promised to all who follow him. We saw new life he promised to all who follow him. We saw that Jesus promises to meet with us when we gather that Jesus promises to meet with us when we gather together to worship him. Read 1Corinthians 11:23-26 together to worship him. Read 1Corinthians 11:23-26 where Jesus tells us that he will be present with us in where Jesus tells us that he will be present with us in the Eucharist: the Eucharist:

This is ...... This is ...... Paragraph 54 tells us the three benefits Paragraph 54 tells us the three benefits This is ...... we receive: This is ...... we receive:

Before we receive the Sacrament, it is only right that we prepare Before we receive the Sacrament, it is only right that we prepare ourselves for this special meeting with our Lord. Part of this 1 ...... ourselves for this special meeting with our Lord. Part of this 1 ...... preparation is done in silence before the service begins.Your preparation is done in silence before the service begins.Your priest or instructor will give you some help on how best to use 2 ...... priest or instructor will give you some help on how best to use 2 ...... this time. Within the service we prepare ourselves by confessing this time. Within the service we prepare ourselves by confessing our sins, receiving God’s forgiveness and by hearing God’s our sins, receiving God’s forgiveness and by hearing God’s Word. 3 ...... Word. 3 ...... However, paragraph 55 of the Catechism tells us that part of our However, paragraph 55 of the Catechism tells us that part of our preparation starts before we set foot in Church, by making sure preparation starts before we set foot in Church, by making sure that we are ‘In love and charity with all people!’ When we come that we are ‘In love and charity with all people!’ When we come to Communion we must not only be at peace with God, but also, to Communion we must not only be at peace with God, but also, as far as possible, at peace with other people. The Catechism as far as possible, at peace with other people. The Catechism follows the teaching of Jesus. Look up Matthew 5:23-24 and fill The follows the teaching of Jesus. Look up Matthew 5:23-24 and fill The in the gaps below. Think seriously whether you have any broken in the gaps below. Think seriously whether you have any broken relationships which need to be mended before you come to the relationships which need to be mended before you come to the altar of God. altar of God.

So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your ...... has ...... against you, that your ...... has ...... against you, ...... your gift there before the altar and ...... Holy ...... your gift there before the altar and ...... Holy ...; first be ...... to your ...... and then ...; first be ...... to your ...... and then come and offer your gift. come and offer your gift.

Note: Please discuss why it is really necessary to mend Note: Please discuss why it is really necessary to mend relationships before we come to the altar to receive the gifts. Is it relationships before we come to the altar to receive the gifts. Is it because we should not ask for ‘forgiveness’ if we cannot forgive Eucharist because we should not ask for ‘forgiveness’ if we cannot forgive Eucharist someone else? someone else? And what precisely is to be forgiven? Is it the doers of wrong or And what precisely is to be forgiven? Is it the doers of wrong or the deed? Or both? the deed? Or both?

Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 26 Church in Wales 18 Module Confirmation Course Page 26 Confirmation Course Confirmation Course MMoodduullee MMoodduullee 1144 Church in Wales 1144 Church in Wales TThhee HHoollyy EEuucchhaarriisstt WhichWhich One?One? TThhee HHoollyy EEuucchhaarriisstt WhichWhich One?One? For this worksheet you will need a copy of the gold book: An Alternative Order for the For this worksheet you will need a copy of the gold book: An Alternative Order for the Holy Eucharist, available from Church in Wales Publications, £ 4.00 or Volume 1 of the Holy Eucharist, available from Church in Wales Publications, £ 4.00 or Volume 1 of the Prayer Book (The Green book), also from Publications at £8.00. Prayer Book (The Green book), also from Publications at £8.00.

Different forms of service are used for the Eucharist in different parts of the Anglican Different forms of service are used for the Eucharist in different parts of the Anglican Church. Ours has been approved for use in the Church in Wales. Some services in the Church. Ours has been approved for use in the Church in Wales. Some services in the parishes use the green (1984), and many churches in Wales parishes use the green Book of Common Prayer (1984), and many churches in Wales use this for their main service. Although some of the words are different, the main use this for their main service. Although some of the words are different, the main outline of the service is the same for both the Alternative Order and the Volume 1 outline of the service is the same for both the Alternative Order and the Volume 1 Prayerbook. The forms of service used in other parts of the Church are nearly all the Prayerbook. The forms of service used in other parts of the Church are nearly all the same, even though the words may be a little different. same, even though the words may be a little different.

The Preparation The Ministry of the Word The Ministry of the Sacrament The Post-Communion The Preparation The Ministry of the Word The Ministry of the Sacrament The Post-Communion

1. The Gathering 2. The Proclamation of the Word 4. The Peace 7. The Dismissal 1. The Gathering 2. The Proclamation of the Word 4. The Peace 7. The Dismissal of the People 3. The Prayers of the Church 5. The Thanksgiving of the People of the People 3. The Prayers of the Church 5. The Thanksgiving of the People 6. The Communion 6. The Communion

Read through the Book Service and then fill in the blanks: Read through the Book Service and then fill in the blanks:

THE GATHERING OF THE PEOPLE THE GATHERING OF THE PEOPLE

1. In the name of ...... 1. In the name of ......

2. Grace and peace be with you 2. Grace and peace be with you (Except in the Easter Season) (Except in the Easter Season) Answer: ...... Answer: ...... THE PROCLAMATION OF THE WORD THE PROCLAMATION OF THE WORD 3. Prayer (One of two) 3. Prayer (One of two) Readings followed by ...... Readings followed by ...... ‘This is the Word of the Lord: Thanks be ‘This is the Word of the Lord: Thanks be ...... to God’ ...... to God’

4. Silence - Confession - Absolution The Sermon 4. Silence - Confession - Absolution The Sermon

The ...... Creed (Affirmation of Faith) The ...... Creed (Affirmation of Faith) ...... The ...... of the ...... The ...... of the ...... 5. The of the Day (Opening Prayer) 5. The Collect of the Day (Opening Prayer) The Ministry of the Word is the part of the The Ministry of the Word is the part of the ...... service where Bible readings, ...... service where Bible readings, OT/NT/Gospel and the Sermon (if done) OT/NT/Gospel and the Sermon (if done) are performed. are performed. Usually preceeded by a special prayer Usually preceeded by a special prayer called the Collect. called the Collect.

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THE MINISTRY OF THE SACRAMENT THE POST-COMMUNION THE MINISTRY OF THE SACRAMENT THE POST-COMMUNION

1. The Peace 1. Give thanks to the Lord. 1. The Peace 1. Give thanks to the Lord.

2...... 2. Postcommunion Prayer 2...... 2. Postcommunion Prayer (One of Four Prayers) (One of Four Prayers)

3. Our Father 3. One of ...... Prayers 3. Our Father 3. One of ...... Prayers

4...... 4. Dismissal and Blessing 4...... 4. Dismissal and Blessing

What makes this service different from any other is the Ministry of What makes this service different from any other is the Ministry of the Sacrament where we meet Jesus in a special way. There are the Sacrament where we meet Jesus in a special way. There are four parts to this section of the service which are the four things four parts to this section of the service which are the four things Jesus did at the Last Supper: Jesus did at the Last Supper:

He took: THE OFFERTORY He took: THE OFFERTORY He blessed: THE THANKSGIVING (Eucharistic Prayer) He blessed: THE THANKSGIVING (Eucharistic Prayer) He broke: THE BREAKING OF THE BREAD He broke: THE BREAKING OF THE BREAD He gave: HOLY COMMUNION He gave: HOLY COMMUNION

As well as Christ’s actions, we hear his words. Read through As well as Christ’s actions, we hear his words. Read through There are special names for the There are special names for the Eucharistic Prayer Number 3 (Gold Book) and write out all the Eucharistic Prayer Number 3 (Gold Book) and write out all the things we use in the Eucharist. things we use in the Eucharist. words which Jesus himself used: words which Jesus himself used: The wine is poured into a The wine is poured into a ...... CHALICE, and there is a ...... CHALICE, and there is a matching plate on which the matching plate on which the bread is placed, known as a bread is placed, known as a ...... PATEN. When there are a lot of PATEN. When there are a lot of people to receive Holy people to receive Holy ...... Communion, we use a kind of ...... Communion, we use a kind of cup with a lid for the bread, which cup with a lid for the bread, which looks a bit like a chalice. This is ...... looks a bit like a chalice. This is ...... called a CIBORIUM. called a CIBORIUM. Who wears vestments? Some priests wear special Who wears vestments? Some priests wear special Bishops and priests do, as well as deacons. garments, or vestments for the Bishops and priests do, as well as deacons. garments, or vestments for the Surplices, a white garment worn over cassocks Eucharist. They first put on a Surplices, a white garment worn over cassocks Eucharist. They first put on a may be worn by choristers and servers. white tunic style gown called an may be worn by choristers and servers. white tunic style gown called an Readers of the Church (people who have a ALB. Then put a STOLE around Readers of the Church (people who have a ALB. Then put a STOLE around special ministry of the Word and have a licence to the neck which hangs down on special ministry of the Word and have a licence to the neck which hangs down on preach) usually wear a blue scarf over the either side, and over these they preach) usually wear a blue scarf over the either side, and over these they surplice worn in the fashion of a stole. wear a CHASUBLE. The stole surplice worn in the fashion of a stole. wear a CHASUBLE. The stole It is NOT a case of men dressing as women as and chasuble are of the same It is NOT a case of men dressing as women as and chasuble are of the same some would call it, but a long standing distinctive colour as the season in the some would call it, but a long standing distinctive colour as the season in the way of dressing ministers of the Church when Church’s year. way of dressing ministers of the Church when Church’s year. performing liturgical and other services. performing liturgical and other services. This dress code enhances the sacred functions Servers and other ministers may This dress code enhances the sacred functions Servers and other ministers may and the colours helping to signify the season or also wear an alb. and the colours helping to signify the season or also wear an alb. special celebration. special celebration.

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The world as we know The world as we know it is far from perfect. What’sWhat’s GoneGone Wrong?Wrong? it is far from perfect. What’sWhat’s GoneGone Wrong?Wrong? Christians believe this The Problem Christians believe this is because many is because many The Problem How does God describe the world as people have lost sight people have lost sight How does God describe the world as he created it? (Genesis 1:31 - Two of God. he created it? (Genesis 1:31 - Two words) of God. words)

However, perhaps ‘things’ are not However, perhaps ‘things’ are not exactly the way they are supposed to exactly the way they are supposed to be? be? Make a list of six things which you Make a list of six things which you think are wrong in the world. think are wrong in the world.

1. 1. According to According to Romans 5:12 how 2. Romans 5:12 how 2. has the world has the world changed? changed? 3. 3.

What do you think 4. What do you think 4. the word ‘SIN’ the word ‘SIN’ means? means? 5. 5.

According to 6. According to 6. Romans 3:23 how Romans 3:23 how many people have many people have sinned? There are many different theories how sinned? There are many different theories how the world came into existence, ranging the world came into existence, ranging from Big Bangs to gasclouds, one even from Big Bangs to gasclouds, one even stated the world started at 4pm on a day stated the world started at 4pm on a day in 4004BC. in 4004BC. Does the Bible give an exact time? Does the Bible give an exact time? Please feel free to discuss...... Please feel free to discuss......

In the beginning God created the and the earth, the earth was a formless void and In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters - then God said ‘Let there be Light’; and there was light. Genesis 1:1-3 waters - then God said ‘Let there be Light’; and there was light. Genesis 1:1-3

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In the Old Testament, we read that because people In the Old Testament, we read that because people disobeyed him, God sent messengers into the world disobeyed him, God sent messengers into the world called prophets to remind us of how we should live called prophets to remind us of how we should live and about the serious consequences of sin. and about the serious consequences of sin. Also the prophets spoke of a future time when God Also the prophets spoke of a future time when God would visit the earth himself in the person of the would visit the earth himself in the person of the Messiah. In the following verses you can find some Messiah. In the following verses you can find some of the things they said. of the things they said.

Fill in the missing words: Fill in the missing words: Micah 6:8 Micah 6:8 What does the Lord require of you but to do...... What does the Lord require of you but to do...... and to love ...... and to walk ...... and to love ...... and to walk ...... with your God? with your God?

Isaiah 59:1 - 2 Isaiah 59:1 - 2 Behold the Lord’s hand is not shortened that it Behold the Lord’s hand is not shortened that it cannot save or his ear dull that it cannot hear but cannot save or his ear dull that it cannot hear but your ...... have made your ...... have made a...... between you and your God and a...... between you and your God and your ...... have hid his face from you. your ...... have hid his face from you.

Isaiah 9:6 What does a prophet do, at which Isaiah 9:6 What does a prophet do, at which For to us a ...... is born, to us a ...... is given; university do they study? For to us a ...... is born, to us a ...... is given; university do they study? and the government shall be upon his shoulder and and the government shall be upon his shoulder and his name will be called Wonderful ...... , The prophet Amos was a farmer and shepherd, and his name will be called Wonderful ...... , The prophet Amos was a farmer and shepherd, and others were not much higher on the social ladder. others were not much higher on the social ladder. Mighty ...... Everlasting ...... , Yet all played a large role within Israel and advised Mighty ...... Everlasting ...... , Yet all played a large role within Israel and advised Prince of ...... (even told off!) kings. Prince of ...... (even told off!) kings. The story of King David and the prophet Nathan is The story of King David and the prophet Nathan is Why Jesus? such a tale - 2 Samuel 11 and 12. Why Jesus? such a tale - 2 Samuel 11 and 12. Could such a thing happen today, we may well ask. Could such a thing happen today, we may well ask. According to Matthew 23:34 how did men One thing is clear - Prophets do not necessarily have According to Matthew 23:34 how did men One thing is clear - Prophets do not necessarily have treat the prophets? degrees in Science or even Performing Arts but they do treat the prophets? degrees in Science or even Performing Arts but they do speak as God commands them to do. speak as God commands them to do. According to Matthew 1:21 why did Jesus According to Matthew 1:21 why did Jesus come? Do you recognise prophets today? come? Do you recognise prophets today?

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You will have noticed that the colours of the priest’s vestments and the altar You will have noticed that the colours of the priest’s vestments and the altar frontals etc. are changed. The colours which are used are intended to remind frontals etc. are changed. The colours which are used are intended to remind us of some aspect of the occasion we are celebrating. us of some aspect of the occasion we are celebrating.

WHITE is used for the most PURPLE/VIOLET is used for WHITE is used for the most PURPLE/VIOLET is used for important festivals like Christmas, Advent and Lent, and sometimes important festivals like Christmas, Advent and Lent, and sometimes Easter and Trinity Sunday; also the for funerals. Easter and Trinity Sunday; also the for funerals. Transfiguration, feasts of the Virgin Transfiguration, feasts of the Virgin Mary and Saints’ Days when the GREEN is a colour which stands Mary and Saints’ Days when the GREEN is a colour which stands Saint is not a martyr. for growth, and is used on the Saint is not a martyr. for growth, and is used on the ordinary Sundays of the Year - from ordinary Sundays of the Year - from RED is used for feasts of the Holy Epiphany to Lent (though in the RED is used for feasts of the Holy Epiphany to Lent (though in the Spirit (such as Sunday/Pentecost), new calendar Green is worn from Spirit (such as Sunday/Pentecost), new calendar Green is worn from for saints who were martyred, and, Candlemas to Lent) and then for all for saints who were martyred, and, Candlemas to Lent) and then for all if you use the new calendar, for the Sundays after Trinity if you use the new calendar, for the Sundays after Trinity Passiontide (the time from Passion Passiontide (the time from Passion Sunday to Good Friday) and the Sunday to Good Friday) and the last four weeks before Advent (also Why not colour in the segments of this last four weeks before Advent (also Why not colour in the segments of this called the Kingdom Season). wheel? called the Kingdom Season). wheel?

Kingdom Kingdom

Advent Advent

Christmas Christmas Epiphany Epiphany Lent Lent

Holy Week Holy Week Trinity Trinity Easter Easter

Ascension Day Ascension Day

WhitSunday WhitSunday The Christian Year The Christian Year The Christian Year The Christian Year

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The word ADVENT means coming. During The word ADVENT means coming. During KeywordsKeywords this season we remember how, in the Old KeywordsKeywords this season we remember how, in the Old Advent Testament the ...... prepared the way for the Advent Testament the ...... prepared the way for the first coming of Jesus, and we prepare first coming of Jesus, and we prepare ourselves for his second coming when he ourselves for his second coming when he shall come again in glory to judge both shall come again in glory to judge both the ...... and the ...... the ...... and the ......

At CHRISTMAS we celebrate the ...... of At CHRISTMAS we celebrate the ...... of Christmas Jesus. Christmas Jesus.

At EPIPHANY we recall the visit of the At EPIPHANY we recall the visit of the Epiphany ...... men, representing God’s Epiphany ...... men, representing God’s showing forth of his Son to the world. showing forth of his Son to the world. Lent LENT begins on ...... Wednesday and Lent LENT begins on ...... Wednesday and lasts for 40 days. We use this time as a Lent lasts for 40 days. We use this time as a preparation for Easter and a chance to preparation for Easter and a chance to examine our lives. examine our lives. Holy Week During HOLY WEEK we recall the last days Holy Week During HOLY WEEK we recall the last days of Jesus’ earthly life, from his entry into of Jesus’ earthly life, from his entry into ...... up to his crucifixion on Good ...... up to his crucifixion on Good Friday. Friday.

On EASTERDAY we give thanks for our On EASTERDAY we give thanks for our Lord’s resurrection from the ...... and his Lord’s resurrection from the ...... and his Easter promise that we, his followers, will Easter promise that we, his followers, will share in his new life. During the Sundays of share in his new life. During the Sundays of Easter we remember his appearance to his Easter we remember his appearance to his ...... after his resurrection...... after his resurrection.

Ascension On ASCENSION DAY we remember the last Ascension On ASCENSION DAY we remember the last occasion Jesus was ...... by his occasion Jesus was ...... by his disciples before he departed from their sight. disciples before he departed from their sight.

On WHITSUNDAY, also known as the day of On WHITSUNDAY, also known as the day of Pentecost PENTECOST, we give thanks for the gift of Pentecost PENTECOST, we give thanks for the gift of the ...... to the ...... the ...... to the ...... whom Jesus had promised, and who has whom Jesus had promised, and who has given strength to all who have followed the given strength to all who have followed the Lord down the ages. Lord down the ages. Trinity On TRINITY SUNDAY we give thanks for the Trinity On TRINITY SUNDAY we give thanks for the one God who has revealed himself in three one God who has revealed himself in three persons, ...... , ...... and persons, ...... , ...... and Holy ...... Holy ...... In the Alternative , the Church’s In the Alternative Lectionary, the Church’s year ends on the Sunday called CHRIST year ends on the Sunday called CHRIST The Christian Year The Christian Year

The Christian Year THE KING, when we proclaim Jesus as the The Christian Year THE KING, when we proclaim Jesus as the King of all the Ages. King of all the Ages.

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Items from a bombed Church were Items from a bombed Church were being salvaged by workmen. One of being salvaged by workmen. One of them found a plaque on which were them found a plaque on which were carved the Ten Commandments. carved the Ten Commandments. ‘Might as well throw these away’, he ‘Might as well throw these away’, he said. ‘They are out of date now’. said. ‘They are out of date now’. Is that your verdict on the Is that your verdict on the Ten Commandments? Ten Commandments?

The first thing to remember The first thing to remember about them is that they are about them is that they are not man-made. Try to find out what our duties to God are and not man-made. Try to find out what our duties to God are and which are our duties to our neighbour. which are our duties to our neighbour. Now read EXODUS 19:16 to Now read EXODUS 19:16 to Who do YOU think your neighbour actually is? Who do YOU think your neighbour actually is? 20:21, then fill in the gaps in Please feel free to discuss. 20:21, then fill in the gaps in Please feel free to discuss. the sentence below: the sentence below: Called to Serve Called to Serve The TEN COMMANDMENTS The TEN COMMANDMENTS were delivered by ...... When we have seen something we think is great - were delivered by ...... When we have seen something we think is great - a good film or television programme - we like to a good film or television programme - we like to to ...... on Mount ...... tell our friends; call them so that they can enjoy it to ...... on Mount ...... tell our friends; call them so that they can enjoy it too. So with faith, when we have learned to love too. So with faith, when we have learned to love They are the instructions or rules Jesus, we cannot keep this to ourselves but must They are the instructions or rules Jesus, we cannot keep this to ourselves but must that God gave to his people. In share it with others. In a court of law, a witness is that God gave to his people. In share it with others. In a court of law, a witness is doing any worthwhile job in ordinary called upon to say what happened, to tell the doing any worthwhile job in ordinary called upon to say what happened, to tell the life it is important to follow rules and truth. Read what Jesus told his disciples in Luke life it is important to follow rules and truth. Read what Jesus told his disciples in Luke instructions. 24:44-48 and discuss. The body of believers instructions. 24:44-48 and discuss. The body of believers In the spiritual life it is even more grew and people around them soon took note of In the spiritual life it is even more grew and people around them soon took note of important. them. We too are called to bear witness to Christ, important. them. We too are called to bear witness to Christ, God did not make these both by our words and by our lives. This is not God did not make these both by our words and by our lives. This is not commandments for his own good, always easy. commandments for his own good, always easy. but for the good of his people. but for the good of his people. If we witness something wrong, how will we deal If we witness something wrong, how will we deal Your main task this week is to learn with that? If we see a friend of ours doing wrong, Your main task this week is to learn with that? If we see a friend of ours doing wrong, the Ten Commandments by heart. a parent, a brother or sister? the Ten Commandments by heart. a parent, a brother or sister? You can find them in paragraph 28 Perhaps the persons we witness doing something You can find them in paragraph 28 Perhaps the persons we witness doing something The Christian Life of the Catechism. wrong, do not much care about our opinions? The Christian Life of the Catechism. wrong, do not much care about our opinions? Care less about our faith? Care less about our faith? Read the following letter sent to an Agony Aunt of Read the following letter sent to an Agony Aunt of a popular magazine and comment on your a popular magazine and comment on your feelings and opinions: feelings and opinions: The Ten Commandments The Ten The Ten Commandments The Ten

I’ve been a Christian for six months, but the others in I’ve been a Christian for six months, but the others in my class just don’t understand. Whenever they use bad my class just don’t understand. Whenever they use bad language or steal things from school I tell them how language or steal things from school I tell them how wicked they are, but they don’t take any notice. When I wicked they are, but they don’t take any notice. When I tell them they are miserable sinners and that they will tell them they are miserable sinners and that they will go to they just laugh, and when I write Bible verses go to hell they just laugh, and when I write Bible verses on the board during break the teacher rubs them off on the board during break the teacher rubs them off which makes me annoyed. I read my Bible and pray which makes me annoyed. I read my Bible and pray most days and I am generally quite a good Christian, most days and I am generally quite a good Christian, but they are all too stupid to see. Isn’t there anything but they are all too stupid to see. Isn’t there anything Look up Matthew 22:37-40 and you else I could do to make them understand? Look up Matthew 22:37-40 and you else I could do to make them understand? can read Jesus’ summary. Sylvia. can read Jesus’ summary. Sylvia.

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VOCATION VOCATION

The word is taken from the Latin The word is taken from the Latin word ‘voco’ meaning I call, so when word ‘voco’ meaning I call, so when we speak of vocation we are we speak of vocation we are thinking of how God calls us. God thinking of how God calls us. God has a purpose for us - for YOU. has a purpose for us - for YOU. Some are called to do spectacular Some are called to do spectacular things which attract publicity in the ORDAINED MINISTRY things which attract publicity in the ORDAINED MINISTRY world. Most of us are called to serve world. Most of us are called to serve in ordinary things. in ordinary things. What are you going to do when you Some are called to the What are you going to do when you Some are called to the leave school? That question is often ordained ministry. It is clear leave school? That question is often ordained ministry. It is clear asked. It is something which that God needs people who asked. It is something which that God needs people who involves God very much, and your can give all their time to his involves God very much, and your can give all their time to his relationship with him. For the mission. You don’t usually relationship with him. For the mission. You don’t usually Y Y Christian the question is What does hear it suggested at Careers Christian the question is What does hear it suggested at Careers God want me to do? But how can I Evenings in schools, but God want me to do? But how can I Evenings in schools, but R R find that out? people are called in this way find that out? people are called in this way

and we must support them and we must support them T T with our prayers. To find out with our prayers. To find out d d 1) BY PRAYER 1) BY PRAYER S S Mention it in your prayers. Ask about the work of the ordained ministry, look in Mention it in your prayers. Ask about the work of the ordained ministry, look in n n I I friends to pray for you. What about the Catechism, paragraphs 22-24, and then friends to pray for you. What about the Catechism, paragraphs 22-24, and then going on retreat or on a pilgrimage? complete the following: going on retreat or on a pilgrimage? complete the following: a a N N God will let you know as he thinks God will let you know as he thinks

The Ministry of a Bishop is: ...... The Ministry of a Bishop is: ...... I I you are ready, one step at a time. you are ready, one step at a time. N N 2) BY FINDING OUT WHAT GIFTS The Ministry of a Priest is: ...... 2) BY FINDING OUT WHAT GIFTS The Ministry of a Priest is: ...... M M YOU HAVE YOU HAVE

The Ministry of a Deacon is: ...... The Ministry of a Deacon is: ...... O O Don’t be shy. Whatever you have Don’t be shy. Whatever you have I I God has given you, so you are not God has given you, so you are not Together with all the other possibilities, you ought Together with all the other possibilities, you ought D D showing off. So try and fit the gifts showing off. So try and fit the gifts to give consideration whether God is calling you in to give consideration whether God is calling you in T T to available jobs. to available jobs. E E this way, so what do you think you can be? this way, so what do you think you can be? A A 3) BY LISTENING TO OTHERS 3) BY LISTENING TO OTHERS 1) Speak to your parish priest. He will know you 1) Speak to your parish priest. He will know you N N It’s surprising how often God uses It’s surprising how often God uses C C well, and he will pray for you as you continue in well, and he will pray for you as you continue in I I other people to advise you on what other people to advise you on what you should do. You don’t always your prayers. you should do. You don’t always your prayers. A A need to take their advice, but do need to take their advice, but do O O listen. Test it and weigh it up for 2) When the time is right, he will arrange for you listen. Test it and weigh it up for 2) When the time is right, he will arrange for you yourself. to see the Warden of Ordinands, and the Bishop. yourself. to see the Warden of Ordinands, and the Bishop. V V D D What if you get two conflicting What if you get two conflicting pieces of advice? Pray and ask for 3) Later, you will be invited to a selection pieces of advice? Pray and ask for 3) Later, you will be invited to a selection R R God’s help to make the right conference, where the Church tests the God’s help to make the right conference, where the Church tests the decision. If you don’t get a job, or genuineness of your call. decision. If you don’t get a job, or genuineness of your call. O O you lose your job, ask how you can you lose your job, ask how you can serve God in what you do. How 4) If you are accepted and still feel the same way, serve God in what you do. How 4) If you are accepted and still feel the same way, does this fit in with vocation? We arrangements will be made for your training. does this fit in with vocation? We arrangements will be made for your training. still have a responsibility to use our still have a responsibility to use our time and talents as best we can for Glyn feels called to serve God as a priest, but he time and talents as best we can for Glyn feels called to serve God as a priest, but he God. keeps on saying he is not good enough, because God. keeps on saying he is not good enough, because he enjoys dancing and wine. What advice would he enjoys dancing and wine. What advice would you give him? Write down your answer. you give him? Write down your answer.

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