Catechist Resources

If you have questions about any of these resources click here. Please include the Reference Number listed.

1) Ackerman, John. Spiritual Awakening (A Guide to Spiritual Life in Congregations). New York, New York: Alban Institute, 1993.

“In this day when we are supposed to protect our boundaries, John Ackerman crosses the boundaries of personal growth and systems theory. In this wise, gentle, and insightful book, Ackerman weaves spiritual development, organizational management, and systems theory into a seamless whole.”

Reference Number: A-00005

2) Amodei, Michael. Jump Start (180 Lessons, Icebreakers, Projects, and Weekend Activities for Junior High). Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 1998.

“Jump Start is the perfect tool to help begin a junior high youth ministry program, or to supplement efforts already in place. Designed for one meeting per month, Jump Start provides sessions and activities for three years of events. An easy-to-use junior high “program,” Jump Start involves little cost and little planning. With Sunday Mass as the centerpiece of the program, junior high youth from both Catholic and non-Catholic schools find a common meeting ground. The Mass is then followed by a teaching session, lunch, and activity.”

Reference Number: A-00006

3) Archdiocese of New York. The Faith That Marks God’s People (Guidelines For Catechesis Grade Seven and Grade Eight). Archdiocese of New York, Education Department, 1989.

Reference Number: Y-00001

4) Archdiocese of San Antonio, Religious Education Office. Gifted, Growing, and Sharing. Allen, Texas: Tabor Publishing, 1993.

Reference Number: A-00007

5) Ashkar, Dominic F. A New Model for Catechesis Road to Emmaus. San Jose, California: Resource Publications, Inc., 1993.

“The Emmaus Principles: 1. The teacher knows who he or she is. 2. The teacher knows his or her mission. 3. The teacher approaches the students personally. 4. The teacher walks along with the students. 5. The teacher finds out where the students are. 6. The teacher explains from the perspective of the students. 7. The teacher invites the students to make a response. 8. The teacher leads the students to liturgy. 9. The students discuss the message among themselves. 10. The students go out to share the message. These ten principles describe how Jesus taught the disciples on the road to Emmaus. In this book, the author discusses how to apply them in catechesis. By putting these principles into practice, you will both form and inform your community.”

Reference Number: A-00008

6) Aymes, Maria de la Cruz, S.H. Feed My Lambs. Allen, Texas: Argus Communications A Division of DLM, Inc., 1985.

“The Feed My Lams Catechist’s Journal has been planned to accompany a six-segment video program for the basic training of volunteer catechists. Each of the six journal sessions is meant to be used after the corresponding segment has been viewed. A discussion with other catechists should follow the completion of each journal session, under the direction of the parish Director or Coordinator of Religious Education, thus enriching the viewer with insight of others.”

Reference Number: A-00009

7) Bausch, William J. Storytelling Imagination and Faith. Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications, 1984.

“In his newest book William J. Bausch weaves a splendid tapestry that pleases the eye, thrills the ear, and warms the heart of reader and listener alike. Bausch taps a treasured wellspring of stories from masters of antiquity to anonymous authors of more recent days, with in many religious and secular traditions. The celebrates the power of stories to capture and pass on from one generation to the next the wisdom, imagination, and faith of a people.”

Reference Number: B-00032

8) Berger, Karen, Larsen, Carolyn and Totel, Vicki. Five-Minute Sermons for Children. Carthage, Illinois: Shining Star Publications A Division of Silver Burdett Ginn Religion Division, 1995.

“If you often find yourself needing a good idea for a brief devotional or sermon for children, Five Minute Sermons for Children is the book for you. Included are attention-holding talks on everything from Advent to witnessing for Jesus. Each object lesson, true story, or activity talk includes a Bible verse or passage to be read aloud to your children. A great source book for pastors, parents, teachers, and anyone involved in Christian education of children, grades 1-5.”

Reference Number: B-00033

9) Bickimer, David Arthur. Leadership in Religious Education. Birmingham, Alabama: Religious Education Press.

“The core of this volume is the Prehensive Leadership Model which enables the religious education leader to preserve overall vision and ecclesial wholeness while engaging in nitty-gritty administration. This book is specifically designed to help religious education leaders get away from seat-of-the-pants administration.”

Reference Number: B-00034

10) Borbe, Michele and Craig. Self-Esteem: A Classroom Affair 101* Ways to Help Children Like Themselves (*and More). San Francisco, California: Harper & Row, Publishers, 1978.

Reference Number: B-00035

11) Borba, Michele and Craig. Self-Esteem: A Classroom Affair Volume 2: More Ways to Help Children Like Themselves. Minneapolis, Minnesota: Winston Press, Inc., 1982.

Reference Number: B-00036

12) Boucher, Therese. Becoming a Sensuous* Catechist (*Using the Arts in Religion Classes). Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications, 1984.

“This luscious workbook for professional and volunteer teachers of religion (of many denominations) temptingly invites the use of the Arts in religion classes. After encouraging teachers to overcome their personal reluctance to include the visual, performing, and literary arts in their lessons, Mrs. Boucher makes such lessons easy to imagine and practical to prepare.”

Reference Number: 00034

13) Boyd, Don, Sork, Rev. David A., Sedano, Sr. Maruja. The Master Catechist Guide for the Catechist Formation Book. New York, New York: Paulist Press, 1982.

“This book includes detailed but highly flexible plans and suggestions for highlighting each lesson in The Catechist Formation Book. In addition there are helpful charts, forms and suggestions for further reading.”

Reference Number: B-00038

14) Burns, John. Affirming the Catechist.

Reference Number: B-00040

15) Campbell, Anne, Waite, Kathryn, and Mikelonis, Anne. Creative Crafts for all Seasons. Allen, Texas: ThomasMore An RCL Company, 1999.

“We express our faith in many different ways. An enjoyable and creative way is through arts and craft. This book offers lots of ideas and opportunities for you and the children to create objects of great meaning from ordinary materials found around the home and classroom. The crafts will serve as a lifetime reminder of God’s love for us. So, gather the crayons, paper, and glue, and let’s get creative!”

Reference Number: C-00008

16) Campbell, Anne, Hendricks, Kathy, Jamobr, Jacquie, McGrath, Eileen, Ristow, Kate. The Faith-Filled Classroom. Allen, Texas: ThomasMore An RCL Company, 1999.

“This is the first in a series of books designed to meet the need of religion teachers as you go about the task of instructing our children. The Faith-Filled Classroom is an accumulation of ideas, thoughts and techniques put together by professional teachers and religious educators who have a combined experience of more than 100 years. We hope that you will use these tried-and-true suggestions to share your faith while having fun!”

Reference Number: C-00010

17) Catechesis and You. Southe Deerfield, Massachusetts: Channing L. Bete Co., Inc., 1982.

Reference Number: C-00026

18) A Catholic Campaign Children and Families First. Washington, D.C.: United States Catholic Conference, 1992.

Reference Number: C-00027

19) Catholic Education: Toward the Third Millennium. Washington, D.C.: The Catholic Education Futures Project, 1996.

Reference Number: C-00028

20) Cavalletti, Sofia. The Religious Potential of the Child. Chicago, Illinois: Liturgy Training Publications, 1992.

“This book describes an experience with children from ages three to six, an experience of adults and children dwelling together in the mystery of God. Know as the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, this way of religious formation is profoundly biblical and sacramental, and it is, at the same time, deeply respectful of the nature of young children, who make their way to God in freedom and joy.”

Reference Number: C-00029

21) Children of the Church: A Guide for Making the Liturgy Live in the Classroom. Monroe, Michigan: The Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, 1960.

Reference Number: S-00022

22) Collins, Mark. On the Road to Emmaus Stories of Faith, Doubt, and Change. Liguori, Missouri: Liguori Publications, 1994.

Reference Number: 00035

23) Cook, Sister Anne, S.S.J. Lifelines for Religion Teachers 20 Classroom Activities for Grades 1-9. West Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications, 1977.

Reference Number: C-00030

24) Craig, Robert P., Middleton, Carl L. Jr. Teaching the Ten Commandments Today. West Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications, 1977.

“In Teaching the Ten Commandments Today they have integrated History, Theology, and moral practice—history to let us know where we have been, theology to help us develop personal reflections on the fundamental meanings of the commandments, and examples of moral practice to guide us to positive applications of solid values in everyday life.”

Reference Number: C-00031

25) Curran, Dolores. Who, Me Teach My Child Religion?. Minneapolis, Minnesota: Mine Publications, Inc., 1970.

Reference Number: C-00032

26) Dalglish, William A., Ph.D. Models for Catechetical Ministry in the Rural Parish. National Conference of Diocesan Directors of Religious Education, 1982.

Reference Number: D-00007

27) Dall, Mary Doerfler. Hands-On Faith. Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 2001.

"Hands-on Faith builds on the well-proved truth that children learn best by doing. In this case, author Mary Doerfler Dall offers a large collection of projects, activities, and crafts to help children in grades two through six really take to heart the lessons of faith. Organized by chapter themes, Hands-on Faith is a perfect book to supplement any religious education program with children, offering cutout materials for lessons involving prayer, liturgy, the Bible, Catholic legends and lore, holy days and church seasons, as well as a host of other new and old appropriate themes. Each of the activities is self-contained with more than one suggestions for adapting and extending it for individual and classroom use. These projects require a minimum of supplies. Many are designed for easy reproduction once used by Joseph the Carpenter, a Noah's ark that really floats, and windblown helicopters that twirl prayers down from the sky. Hands-on Faith is perfect for classroom use but is also a great work-along resource for parents who wish to impart lessons of faith to their children in fun ways that they are bound to love."

Reference Number: D-00008

28) DeBoys, James J. Jr., Krusniewski, Regis, S.S.N.D., Suflita, Jeannette, Cassetta, Charles R. Partners in Catechesis Family and Catechesis. Wm. C. Brown Company Publishers, 1984.

Reference Number: D-00009

29) DeVillers, Sylvia. Lectionary-based Catechesis for Children. New York, New York: Paulist Press, 1994.

Reference Number: 00036

30) Diocese of Toledo, Catholic Youth and School Services, Religious Education Department. The New Catechist Glossary. Dayton, Ohio: Catechist, 1997.

“Developed as part of the catechist formation process in the Diocese of Toledo, this handy reference will help catechists in their personal growth as well as when they prepare lessons.”

Reference Number: D-00012

31) Doctrinal Elements for Elementary Grades Based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church (Provisional). National Conference of Catholic Bishops Ad Hoc Committee to Oversee the Use of the Catechism.

Reference Number: 00032

32) Dues, Greg. Enjoying God & Teaching Creatively (Insights and Ideas for More Effective Religion Classes). Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications, 1999.

“Religion teachers know—at least intellectually—that God is loving, forgiving, and compassionate. Yet how many of us actually enjoy discovering the mystery of our loving God in our day-to-day experiences? And how can we share what we do now possess ourselves?…Each of the nineteen themes offers a reflective essay that unpacks some feature of the human experience of God and its ramifications for catechists. Here’s a way to enjoy God and teach creatively, no matter what grade level you teach.”

Reference Number: D-00013

33) Dues, Greg. Teaching Religion with Confidence and Joy. Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications,1988.

“Your texts, teaching materials, and training meeting supplied by your pastor and parish equip you to teach. When you step into a classroom of gather in a home to teach, you are your own best asset. But, you must be confident. Greg Dues can show you how your faith experience as a person of prayer, as a worshipping believer, as a baptized and confirmed communicant provides you with your truest source of confidence. This encouraging book will open new doors of wonder to you. It will offer you the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see teaching as an invaluable moment in your own personal faith life, as well as you students’.”

Reference Number: D-00014

34) Duggan, Robert D. Teaching Kids the Basics of Liturgy. Allen, Texas: ThomasMore an RCL Company, 2000.

“This book is meant to help you with your sacred task of helping the young to be part of the Church. It is an accurate and reliable guide to the basics about Catholic prayer and worship. Whether you are a teacher in the classroom of within the “domestic church” of your own family, this resource is meant to guide you in the exercise of your responsibility to the next generation. We need to work hard to see that our children enjoy a basic literacy about our Catholic way of prayer and worship.”

Reference Number: D-00015

35) Durka, Gloria Ph.D. The Joy of Being a Catechist. Mineola, New York: Resurrection Press, 1995.

“EVERYDAY throughout the land thousands of people just like you set about to do something amazing—they take time from their busy lives to serve their parishes as catechists…In your teaching, by your words and example, you are helping others to have glimpses of grace amidst the ordinariness of everyday life. And what is equally wondrous, is that in doing this work of catechesis, you find that teaching can feed different layers of your own soul.”

Reference Number: D-00016

36) Easton, Laurine M. Crafts for Religious Education Grades 1-8. Rockford, Illinois: TEL Publishers, Ltd., 1987.

Reference Number: E-00001

37) Episcopal Committee of Baja and Alta California, Sonora and Arizona. Without Borders Guidelines for an Evangelizing Catechesis.

Reference Number: E-00002

38) Eroes, Thea. Handbook of Art Activities for Primary-Grade Religion Programs. New York, New York: William H. Sadlier, Inc., 1971.

Reference Number: E-00023

39) Eroes, Thea. Handbook of Art Activities for Middle-Grade Religion Programs. New York, New York: William H. Sadlier, Inc., 1971.

Reference Number: 00037

40) Fischer, Patricia and Matheny, Ruth. At Ease in the Classroom (So You’re Going to Teach Religion). Dayton, Ohio: Peter Li, Inc., 1975.

Reference Number: F-00001

41) Florian, Amy. Sign & Symbol Word and Song. Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 2001.

“From lighting the Advent wreath to singing around a birthday cake, children delight in ritual. Ritual touches upon mystery, and, as author Amy Florian explains, it “defines and expresses who we are, what we believe, to whom we belong, and our relationship with others.” All too often, however, catechists and teachers find it difficult to create meaningful ritual for children. Sign & Symbol Word and Song makes it easy.”

Reference Number: F-00002

42) Flynn, Elizabeth W. and La Faso, John F. Group Discussions as Learning Process a Sourcebook. New York, New York: Paulist Press, 1972.

“The basic student text for understanding the theory and practice of Group Discussion Leadership. Among the practical applications included are suggestions on preparing for and leading a discussion, developing the dynamics of the group, and overcoming such problems as leadership functions, communication, participation and conflict.”

Reference Number: F-00003

43) Gargiulo, Barbara. How Do I Talk With God?. Allen, Texas: ThomasMore an RCL Company, 1999.

“As parents and teachers, we realize that we have a unique opportunity to teach our children to pray as they face the challenges of the school year. I hope that you will use this special book to help the children recognize the importance of prayer in their lives and to encourage them to pray every day. As Jesus taught his disciples how to pray, we, too, can teach our kids and serve as models as they continue to grow in their faith.”

Reference Number: G-00006

44) Geraghty, Sheila RSM and Keilly, Sheila. Creative Activities for Religious Education. Dubuque, Iowa: Brown-Roa Publishing Media, 1991.

Reference Number: G-00007

45) Geraghty, Sheila RSM and Keilly, Sheila. 50 Nifty Activities for Review, Reinforcement, and Enrichment. Dubuque, Iowa: Brown-Roa Publishing Media, 1992.

Reference Number: G-00008

46) Glavich, Mary Kathleen, SND. Discipline Made Easy (Positive Tips & Techniques for Religion Teachers). Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications, 1994.

“In this practical, insightful, and straightforward book, Mary Kathleen Glavich, SND gives tried and true tips, hints, suggestions, and methods for achieving discipline in religion class. After examining why maintaining discipline is particularly difficult today, Glavich proposes ways to counteract this trend. She gives specific tips on what to say and do, illustrated by examples and strategies culled from her years of teaching experience.”

Reference Number: G-00009

47) Godfrey, Sandra. Jesus Loves Me. Carthage, Illinois: Shining Star Publications A Publication of Silver Burdett Ginn Religion Division, 1995.

“Jesus Loves Me provides busy parents and teacher with nine lessons that teach Preschooler basic Bible truths about God and His love for them. They learn that His love is shown through His care, His creation, His church, and so on. The lessons include Bible stories, games, crafts, snacks, songs, and many other fun activities. For grades pre-K-1.”

Reference Number: 4-00001

48) Grant, Sandy. Share the Gospel (Church Banner Patterns). Elgin, Illinois: Daivd C. Cook Publishing Co., 1987.

“In this book you’ll find 12 patterns, each shown in three sizes, complete with instructions on how to make and care for banners. Also included in the easy-to-use, perforated pages are alphabets and numbers in two sizes. Choose your favorite banner and make it as a gift for your church, neighbors, grandparents, or shut-in friends.

Reference Number: G-00010

49) Griggs, Donald L. Basic Skills for Church Teachers. Nashville, Tennessee: Abingdon Press, 1985.

“…focuses directly on the realities of church teaching. It provides sound ideas and experience-tested advice to those who have limited time for preparation and training. There are also helpful checklists and suggestions lists for additional ideas and support.”

Reference Number: G-00011

50) Groome, Thomas H., Ed.D. and Corso, Michael J., Ph.D. Empowering Catechetical Leaders. Washington, D.C.: National Catholic Educational Association, 1999.

Reference Number: G-00013

51) Guidelines for Doctrinally Sound Catechetical Materials. Washington D.C.: United States Catholic Conference, 1990.

Reference Number: C-00035

52) Harin, Merrill and Sax, Saville. A Peaceable Classroom Activities to Calm & Free Student Energies. Minneapolis, Minnesota: Winston Press, Inc., 1977.

“The teacher-tested activities in this book help meet a child’s and an adult’s need to change inner disquiet into more productive and creative energy. Use the activities contained in A Peaceable Classroom with positive results. Teacher report that students anxiety is reduced; student concentration is improved; and student learning is increased. Moreover, these stress-releading activities increase one’s capacity for a zestful enjoyment of life.”

Reference Number: H-00009

53) Harris, Maria. Women and Teacher. New York, New York: Paulist Press,1988.

Reference Number: H-00010

54) Hater, Rev. Robert J. Parish Catechetical Ministry. Encino, California: Benziger Publishing Company, 1986.

Reference Number: H-00011

55) Hater, Rev. Robert J. Religious Education and Catechesis: A Shift of Focus. National Conference of Diocesan Directors of Religious Education, 1981.

Reference Number: H-00012

56) Herrera, Marina. Adult Religious Education for the Hispanic Community. National Conference of Diocesan Directors of Religious Educators.

Reference Number: H-00013

57) Hill, Brennan and Hill, Marie. Adult Catechesis Basic Parish Programs. Winona, Minnesota: St. Mary’s College Press Christian Brothers Publications, 1977.

“Treats topics most relevant in adult education and parish experience: sacraments, morality, Scripture, Church, and more. It is not just a book of resources or mere theory but a manual furnishing the background, description of sessions, program introduction, and necessary teacher resources. Eight programs for adult classes are included. Along with audio-visual materials and suggestions for use with a variety of audiences.”

Reference Number: H-00014

58) Hill, Brennan R. Key Dimensions of Religious Education. Winona, Minnesota: Saint Mary’s Press Christian Brothers Publications, 1988.

“In this book, Hill explores the dimensions of religion, faith, theology, educational theory, culture, freedom, spirituality, social justice, and the Scruptures as they bear on religious education. He concludes by looking to the future of the field and the changing roles of directors of religious education and teachers in parish programs and parochial schools.”

Reference Number: 00038

59) Hubbard, Howard J. I am Bread Broken A Spirituality for the Catechist. New York, New York: The Crossroad Publishing Company, 1996.

Reference Number: H-00015

60) Inkel, Maxine, S.L. 100 Fun Ways to Livelier Lessons. Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications, 1995.

“Catechists and teacher looking for a treasure chest of quick, creative, and flexible activities to observe holy days and holidays with their classes can stop right here. These 100 activities, ten for each month, will ass sparkle and pizzazz to any religion lesson, in any setting. Each is self-contained, with background information and instructions for the teacher, and each incorporates prayer in creative ways.”

Reference Number: I-00003

61) Jambor, Mary Beth. Helping Kids Live Their Faith (Service projects that make a difference). Allen, Texas: ThomasMore an RCL Company, 1999.

“You have the very special task of teaching and showing our children how to live a life of faith. This book offers numerous suggestions and opportunities to help children understand the importance of carrying out the Church’s mission of serving their families, the Community, and their parish. Try the projects in this book and help kids make a difference in their lives. The projects are fun—and they really work!”

Reference Number: J-00001

62) Jenkins, Christie L., Ph.D. Loving Our Neighbor the Earth (Creation-Spirituality Activities for 9-11 Year-Olds). San Jose, California: Resource Publications, Inc., 1991.

“Here are twenty easy-to-follow lesson plans that teach children (ages 9-11) how to recognize the value of all life. There are student handouts (which can be photocopied) and a variety of planned activities. A handy guide combines lessons into units easily taught in a Vacation Bible School, as a summer supplement, or along side a regular religious education program. Topics include water conservation, cultivating the earth, “God and garbage”, and learning the stars. Children of all faiths will grow in wisdom as their eyes open to the wonder of God’s creation. When they finish these lessons they will understand what the author means when she says that polluting the earth is nothing short of sacrilege.”

Reference Number: J-00003

63) Just Treatment for Those Who Work for the Church. Cincinnati, Ohio: National Association of Church Personnel Administrators, 1986.

Reference Number: A-00010

64) Kelly, Francis D. The Mystery We Proclaim (Catechesis at the Third Millennium). Huntington, Indiana: Our Sunday Visitor Publishing Division, 1993.

“On June 25, 1992, Pope John Paul II gave Formal approbation to the final text of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The Mystery We Proclaim reflects the spirit and contents of the catechism—which will be the chief reference book for catechesis for many decades to come. The Mystery We Proclaim is an invitation to all involved in catechesis to reflect anew on this ministry in the full light of the revealed “mystery of faith.” In the context of the catechetical movement of the past decades, The Mystery We Proclaim analyzes and evaluates these efforts and gives some direction for the future catechetical renewal.”

Reference Number: K-00002

65) Kimball, Emily Kittle. How to Get the Most Out of Being a Volunteer Skills for Leadership. Phoenix, Arizona: Jordan Press, 1980.

Reference Number: K-00003

66) Langdon, Harry. Children Celebrate (39 Plays for Feasts). Cincinnati, Ohio: St. Anthony Messenger Press, 1993.

“These thirty-nine plays will spark the imagination of children and help children grow in wholeness and holiness as they learn about and act out the stories of the lives of the saints.”

Reference Number: L-00012

67) Laurello, Bartholomeo J. Ministering to the Aging: Every Christian’s Call. New York, New York: Paulist Press, 1979.

“Ministering to the Aging: Every Christian’s Call looks at those special gifts and need of older adults and describes how we might more effectively serve this group of people. Ministering to the Aging contains surprising and helpful information about the aging process and offers practical suggestions for programs for older adults. Ministering to the Aging also includes a wealth of information about books, films, and other resources that will help readers learn more about aging and enable older people to get more enjoyment and fulfillment from these years of their lives.”

Reference Number: L-00013

68) LeFever, Marlene D. Creative Teaching Methods Be an Effective Christian Teacher. Colorado Springs, Colorado: Cook Ministry Resources, 1996.

“Do you ever wonder why Jeffery talks all of the time? Or why Toni can’t sit still? Or why Alex loves work sheets? Or why Jordan is always trying something new?”

Reference Number: L-00014

69) LeFever, Marlene D. Learning Styles Reaching Everyone God Gave You to Teach. Colorado Springs, Colorado: Cook Ministry Resources, 1995.

“Effective learning follows a natural four-step process that answers these four questions: Why do I need this?, What does the Bible say about my need?, How does what the Bible teaches actually work?, How will I use what I have learned? By answering each of these questions, we will appeal to the four learning styles: Imaginative, Analytic, Common Sense, and Dynamic. A learning style is the way in which a person sees or perceives things best and then uses that knowledge. When we understand learning styles and adjust our teaching or parenting to those styles, we begin reaching everyone God gives us to teach.”

Reference Number: L-00015

70) LeFever, Marlene. Parties with Purpose (Laying the Groundwork for Discipleship & Evangelism). Colorado Springs, Colorado: Cook Ministry Resources, 1998.

“Parties with a Purpose is a fresh, helpful guide to purposeful partying for the entire church family. It is packed with out-of-the-ordinary ideas to get you thinking, inviting, and ministering—to help church people learn to enjoy each other’s company, reach out to newcomers, and rediscover the art of friendship.”

Reference Number: L-00016

71) Leon, Judene. Bible Games for Teams and Groups. Minneapolis, Minnesota: Winston Press, 1984.

Reference Number: L-00017

72) Malone, Antonia. Spreading Light: Religious Education for Special Children. New York, New York: Paulist Press, 1986.

“Spreading the Light: Religious Education for Special Children is written in the spirit of Jean Vanier and Henri Bissonnier, and uses Christian educator Tom Groome’s “shared praxis” method to call us to reflect on the purpose of Christion religious education and on the best methods for implementing that purpose. “Community building,” “affirmation,” and “getting to know Jesus,” grounded in the spirit of love, are the keys. This is he message of Part One. Part Two takes you step-by-step from how to enlist support for your proposed program to how to prepare a lesson plan and a prayer service. Completing the book is an up-to-date annotated bibliography with suggestions for three years of lesson plans.”

Reference Number: M-00024

73) Manternach, Janaan and Pfeifer, Carl J. Creative Catechist A Comprehensive, Illustrated Guide for Training Religion Teachers. Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications, 1983.

“This new training guide grows out of the authors’ convictions that involvement in the teaching ministry of the church is an exciting, faith-enriching experience. Manternach and Pfeifer cite their belief, in a very personal introduction, that “creativity is something that comes with being alive, sensitive, caring, questioning, open to the Holy Spirit, willing to learn from the past and to explore the present. To be creative is to be willing to grow and to encourage growth in others. And “growing in faith” is what catechesis is all about.”

Reference Number: M-00025

74) Manternach, Janaan & Pfeifer, Carl J. How Creative Catechists Use Stories. Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications, 2000.

"Story is vitally important in our lives of faith because it connects with the whole of life. Story makes us laugh, cry, wonder, imagine; it also heals. In this delightful book...the authors provide ideas and examples for doing just that. As the book points out, teachers can learn from the example of Jesus who used parables to communicate important lessons about life and faith. The "modern parables" contained in popular children's stories--both new and old--are a treasury of imaginative themes, illustrations, word pictures, and adventures. Teachers and catechists can draw on this treasury for creative and appealing ways to present faith lessons to their students."

Reference Number: M-00160

75) Manternach, Janaan, Kramer, Rev. Thomas, see cover for the rest. Your Personal Handbook for Better Teaching Growing as a Catechist. Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications, 1981.

“Now catechists in school and parish programs have a practical means of growing in confidence and effectiveness. Place Growing as a Catechist in the hands of the individual religion teacher—it is an easy-to-read source of spiritual insight, motivation for ministry, and practical teaching techniques. Place it in the hands of a program director—it becomes a valuable basis for group dialogue at teacher meetings.”

Reference Number: M-00026

76) Marino, Joseph S. Biblical Themes in Religious Education. Birmingham, Alabama: Religious Education Press, 1983.

“Biblical Themes in Religious Education is a book in which some of the world’s foremost biblical theologians offer the fruits of biblical scholarship to the field of religious education. The book attempts to make the findings of biblical studies a yeasting force in the religious education work of the church.”

Reference Number: M-00027

77) Mathson, Patricia. Bundles of Faith and Tons of Fun: Easy Activities Payers, and Projects for Children. Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 2000.

“This latest book by Patricia Mathson is a resource of crafts, prayers, role plays, banners, and much more to enhance a child’s walk in faith with Jesus throughout the entire year. The material in Bundles of Faith and Tons of Fun: Easy Activities Prayers, and Projects for Children is suitable for pre-school to sixths grade. The ideas are easy to use and adapt to any religious education setting in school, parish, or home. The materials required for specific lesions and activities are close at hand, and preparation time is minimal. This is a perfect resource to enhance and supplement any religious education curriculum and any course. In each idea, Mathson emphasizes how Jesus is present. Children are able to recognize in their work, prayer, and sharing how Jesus is truly with them. Prayer chains, pantomimes, giving trees, May Day crownings, and holiday adventures are all part of the creative offerings which are truly tons of fun as catechists, teachers, and parents share bundles of faith with the children.”

Reference Number: M-00028

78) Mathson, Patricia. Creativities 101 Creative Activities for Children to Celebrate God’s Love. Notre Dame, Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 1992

“Catechists, pastoral ministers, religious educators, parents, grandparents, indeed, all who are called to pass on God’s message to the children will find in Creativities a wealth of practical ideas and activities to help them with their special mission. The book’s focus is clear—to help children discover God’s call in their lives and how they can respond to that call. Over 100 easy-to-use learning activities, that include echo pantomime, bible stories, service projects, art activities, discussion starters, and prayer services bring the message of Jesus to life for children.”

Reference Number: M-00029

79) Mazar, Peter. School Year Church Year: Customs and Decorations for the Classroom. Chicago, Illinois: Liturgy Training Publications, 2001.

“A helpful resource for teachers, catechists, classroom aides, principals, directors of religious education, parish center secretaries and liturgy coordinators. This encyclopedia will walk with you through the school year, give you a crash course on the church’s year, suggest customs you can use with children of all ages from Advent to Easter, fall to summer, and help you set up and decorate a classroom that will form your students in the tradition of biblical and liturgical images, icons that help us see the face of the invisible God. And it will help you make stellar bulletin boards and counter displays, too!”

Reference Number: M-00030

80) McGrath, Eileen Ph.D. Kids Get Stressed Too (Understanding what’s going on & how to help). Allen, Texas: ThomasMore an RCL Company, 1999.

“Where have the carefree days of childhood gone? As parents and teachers, we are finding our kids dealing with all kinds of “adult stress.” I wrote this book to guide you in your vocation of helping our children grow up in the most positive way possible—recognizing that we need to teach our kids coping skills that will last a lifetime. We can be instruments of healing as our children mature in their faith!”

Reference Number: M-00031

81) McIntyre, Marie. Religion Teacher’s Pet (100 Self-help ideas for creative catechists). West Mystic, Connecticut: Twenty-Third Publications, 1979.

“Do you need some fresh ideas for classroom activities? There are 100 different ideas in this book, all specified by grade level. Do you want to keep a record of the activities you’ve used, when and with whom you’ve used them? This book has a built-in record for listing dates and classes to avoid duplicating techniques with the same students. Do you sometimes need a spiritual boost? This book offers a Prayer Before Teaching and some mini-meditations based on Jesus as model teacher.”

Reference Number: M-00033

82) McNamara, Beth Barnigan, McKeever, Gina Wright & Robinson, Sue. Big Gook of Ideas for Children’s Faith Formation. Huntington, Indiana: Our Sunday Visitor, 2001.

"What are the top then reasons that make this activity book unique? 10. Arranged alphabetically from A to Z. 9. Provides hundreds of teacher-tested ideas for kids aged three to eight. 8. Comes complete with materials list and instructions, and helps make important faith connections. 7. Covers both holidays and holy days. 6. Contains ethnic traditions and celebrations. 5. Packed with prayer experiences, crafts, songs, finger plays, art, rhymes, and games. 4. Teaches the faith with hands-on activities. 3. Shows the goodness of God in everyday life. 2. Serves as ideal