CATECHETICAL LESSON PLAN

Topic:Anxiety and Stress- Anticipation of the CrucifixionDate: February 21, 2018

Focus: Humanity of Christ

I.Learning Objectives (the participant will…)

Objectives for deeper understanding: Anxiety and stress are difficult to overcome. It draws our focus toward only our concerns and away from the concerns of others.

Christ was stressed by the thought of his crucifixion in the garden of Gethsemane. He showed how, even though he knew what would happen, he would trust in the Father.

Objectives for inviting learners to a change of heart: The learner is reminded that returning to church is a shelter from their worries.

II. Materials/ Resources Needed (textbooks, media/technology, supplies, handouts, etc.):

III. Catechetical Foundations (small group leaders read beforehand):

A. CHRISTOCENTRIC:And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body. And be thankful.

B. SCRIPTURAL DRIVING FORCE:Colossians 3:15; Matthew 6:34; Matthew 26: 36-46; 1 Peter 5:6-7; Philippians 4:6-7

C. PRIMARY CATECHISM SECTIONS:CCC 2544-2550

D. OTHER IMPORTANT RESOURCES:

Fr. Mike Schmitz: Overwhelmed?

Fr. Mike Schmitz: What’s your bedtime?

IV. Procedure:

A. Gather (Dinner): Engage the teens where they are. Look out for those who seem lost or out of place. Be confident being uncomfortable.

B. Proclaim:

  • What was the proclaimer’s experience of anxiety or stress?
  • Could going to Mass help the problem?
  • Distinguish between crushing mental anxiety and regular anxiety caused by stress from daily work.
  • Encourage listeners to be aware of the way they feel and to seek help when needed.
  • It is difficult to solve the problem of anxiety and stress all by yourself.
  • Community is important to return to when we are burdened by many things.
  • Include in this lesson, Christ’s experience as he prayed at the garden of Gethsemane (Agony in the Garden- Matthew 26: 36-46). He understood the pain he would have to go through on his way to his crucifixion and it caused him great distress. He knew that there was purpose in his anxiety. Take them along with you in this story like a bible study:
  • Why was Jesus in agony?
  • Isn’t he God, why was it difficult for him?
  • He was patient in receiving strength from God the Father.
  • What did this scene mean in the context of the Gospel?
  • Do you think Jesus was weak when he asked for the “cup to pass”?
  • In addition to anxiety, what can someone do about the stressors in their life?
  • How does Faith help reduce anxiety or stress?
  • Different solutions: Practical and Spiritual

C. Break (Small group discussion questions):

  1. Do you find yourself feeling anxious? Why?
  2. What do you believe is the root of your worries?
  3. What worries in your life may be holding you back from a confident faith-filled life?
  4. Are the stresses in your life typically things you can control or can’t control?
  5. What does the word “peace” mean to you?
  6. How can changing your priorities change the about of stress you experience in your life?

D. Mass

V. Evaluation/ Alterations for next time

Drop this off at the Religious Education office