Engaging Faith

Jim Caviezel, the actor who played Jesus in The Passion of Christ, told the audience of young Catholics to "shake off their indifference" and "express their faith in public." This presentation--just under sixteen minutes in length--is well worth the time to show in its entirety to your students. Caviezel spoke at the recent SLS18 (Student Leadership Summit 2018) conference sponsored by The Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) in Chicago. He was there to promote his new film Paul: Apostle of Christ which is scheduled for release on March 28, 2018. After the students watch the presentation, ask for their reactions. You may wish that they share their favorite quotations by Caviezel. For example: "Shake off indifference." "Pray. Fast. Meditate on the Holy Scriptures. Take the sacraments seriously." "Embrace your cross." "Race to your goal." "You are not given freedom to do what you like. You are given freedom to do what you ought."

A few years ago, a list was compiled from Pope Francis’ most popular teachings and quotations to form his most popular New Years’ resolutions. Here they are: Don't gossip. Finish your meals. Make time for others. Choose the “more humble” purchase. Meet the poor 'in the flesh.' Stop judging others. Befriend those who disagree. Make commitments, such as marriage. Make it a habit to “ask the Lord.” Be happy. As you return to school, have your students write one or two sentences either explaining what each of Pope Francis’ resolutions mean or how they might apply these resolutions to their own lives. Next, have them write their own New Years’ resolutions using Pope Francis’ list as an inspiration. Finally, have the students read highlights of Pope Francis’ January 1, 2018 homily on the Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God.

Engaging Faith

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