To see how you might use one of these points in your catechesis, read “How to lead a 90-minute catechetical session.”
The Way of Faith
Explain that all of human life is sacred and that we are forbidden from killing.
In the news
The release … of the so-called “torture memos,” in response to a lawsuit from the American Civil Liberties Union, has renewed debate in this country about whether torture, or “enhanced interrogation,” was useful or justified as part of what officials then called the “war on terror” following the 9/11 attacks.(Editorial: “Torture memos” a chance to learn)
In the readings
The author of life you put to death, but God raised him from the dead; of this we are witnesses. (Acts 3:13-15, 17-19)
In the tradition
Torture which uses physical or moral violence to extract confessions, punish the guilty, frighten opponents, or satisfy hatred is contrary to respect for the person and for human dignity…. In recent times it has become evident that these cruel practices were neither necessary for public order, nor in conformity with the legitimate rights of the human person. On the contrary, these practices led to ones even more degrading. It is necessary to work for their abolition. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2297-2298)
The Way of Faith
Explain that respect for life means we must have peace of heart and rid ourselves of anger and hatred.
In the news
Arguing with siblings or cousins is how we learn to negotiate with the world. Sure, kids do it badly at first, they are outraged about things that seem ridiculous to us. And they can get physical; then we have to stop them—teach them to use words, and later teach them to use fewer cruel words. But sometimes you just have to let them fight it out. (In Defense of Bickering)
In the readings
While they were still speaking about this, he stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” (Lk 24:35-48)
In the tradition
Earthly peace is the image and fruit of the peace of Christ, the messianic “Prince of Peace.” By the blood of his Cross, “in his own person he killed the hostility,” he reconciled [all] with God and made his Church the sacrament of the unity of the human race and of its union with God. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2305)
The Way of Faith
Explain that the fifth commandment forbids the intentional destruction of human life.
In the news
As the Taliban tightened their hold over newly won territory, Pakistani politicians and U.S. officials Thursday sharply questioned the government’s willingness to deal with the insurgents and the Pakistani military’s decision to remain on the sidelines. (Taliban’s advance raises concerns)
In the readings
Those who say, “I know him,” but do not keep his commandments are liars, and the truth is not in them. But whoever keeps his word, the love of God is truly perfected in him. (1 Jn 2:1-5a )
In the tradition
Because of the evils and injustices that accompany all war, the Church insistently urges everyone to prayer and to action so that the divine Goodness may free us from the ancient bondage of war…. All citizens and all governments are obliged to work for the avoidance of war. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2307-2308)
Have you seen other breaking news this week that needs to be discussed? Click on comments to share your thoughts.
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