Lesson 3

Man Needs to be Saved

All you need to do is know a little about human history and turn on the nightly news to get an idea that this world can use some help from the outside. Portrayed in history and current events is a seemingly relentless proliferation of man’s self-destruction. Mankind’s story cries out with the need for man to be saved from himself. The primary reason for this need has to do with the “Fall of Man,” portrayed in “The Story of Adam and Eve” as told in Genesis. An explanation of the story is disclosed in the next lesson. This lesson presents topics that help frame some important ideas of God’s love through his unfolding story of salvation for man.

The Making of A Story

Any good story consists of a noticeable beginning, the development of an idea, the development of characters, the character’s participation in the fulfillment of the idea of the story, a climax, and a conclusion. Well-written stories contain smaller stories about places, people, and things. Written as such, you learn about the characters and appreciate how the characters are developed. All well-written stories present an intended outcome as (a goal, action, and purpose).

Good stories told in part or as a summary, become understandable from their basic or main points. For example, cliff notes (or a ‘Reader’s Digest version of a story) are used to get at the essential aspects of a story and how the characters are involved. The history of man is a very large story beginning with the first man up to the current day. It involves many people with their own unique stories. Man’s history includes God’s necessary intervention into the story of man. Therefore, knowing the basic points about the first man is needed to start your faith journey/story.

“What does the idea about stories have to do with Faith?” Your personal faith journey is linked to mankind’s story from its beginning, up to and including the present day. Your journey itself becomes a story related to all those who have gone before you, those who are journeying with you, and those who will come after you. Your story is related to the salvation history of mankind. Thus, making every Christian’s journey connected to salvation history, with its beginning coming from what is revealed in the Bible.

In all things, the church, as well as your life in the church are connected to and rely on all that God has revealed. Therefore, your life within the Church, the truth that is taught and received, and the sacraments are joined spiritually to salvation history.

The Bible as a record of faith and revelation from God, contains part of the history of man, with its purpose being the salvation history. In salvation history God reveals himself to a lost, weakened, sinful and confused humanity that is looking for hope, help and a savior.

Man is a Creature of God

Mankind, as a creature made by God owes its existence to God. Humans are created with a body and a soul. This truth is found in the Creation Story about the first man in the Biblical book of Genesis[1], recounting the beginning of God’s revelation and man’s beginning.

Your soul is made in the image and likeness of God in that it is a spirit, it is immortal, endowed with intelligence, has free will, and can know love. Your soul is the principle of life and as spirit goes on into eternity. The soul besides being the principle that is used to animate life, also is the center for thoughts, feelings, and will.

As both flesh and spirit, body and soul created by God, you cannot exist on earth as one part without the other. The body cannot perform a single action independent of the soul. But, in death, the only part that goes on into the afterlife is the soul.

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[1] Genesis Chapters 1,2 &3

Why Did God Make you?

God’s reasons for creation are infinite and unfathomable. Therefore, you will never know all of the ‘why’ for His creation and all He allows to occur within creation. However, there are certain things God has allowed to be knowable. One is God creates out of Love. The other is the reason why God created man. God made you to know Him, to love Him and to serve Him in this world, and to be happy with him forever in the next. The worship of God is a great part of knowing, loving, and serving Him. To do this God gives you free will, faith, sanctifying grace, love, and hope.

You have life and free will.

Every person born is endowed with the God’s gift of life which is both physical(natural) and eternal (Spiritual). Whether you like it or not, upon death, your soul (Your spiritual part) goes on to an eternal destination. Your eternal destination is dependent on the choices made while here on earth.

Every person is given free will by God, to choose whether or not to follow his love and will which impact your immortal soul. God intends for you to go on into everlasting life which is only possible in heaven. To attain everlasting life requires choosing to be sanctified by God’s grace so that you may know and love Him. Therefore, seek God, asking Him to grant you his grace which aids and provides the means to get to heaven[1].

Scriptures convey that God punishes the evil and rewards the righteous. This implies you are free to do good and avoid evil. You can choose because, of free will. Without it, you could not choose to love God. Love requires that a person be free to choose, otherwise, you are simply an automaton, doing what you were programmed to do.

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[1] More on what grace is and How God provides this is discussed in a later lesson.

Scriptures convey that God punishes the evil and rewards the righteous. This implies, with free will, you are free to choose good and avoid evil. Without free will, you could not choose to love God. Love requires that a person be free to choose, otherwise, you are simply an automaton, doing what you were programmed to do.

There is a Story of Salvation for all Mankind

Due to Adam and Eve’s first sin, man is now separated from God and needs salvation. God’s plan for calling men back to himself is referred to as the Story of Salvation (Or Salvation History).[1] God’s intervention within history, is an ever-revealing discourse of Himself, His mercy, and an interlude of help for mankind. The Catholic Church as ordained by God[2], has as part of its mission, to participate in a very special way in the Story of Salvation. Part of this is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and deliver the Sacraments which contain God’s saving grace.

The preaching of the Gospel provides the revealing cause of man’s salvation which is Jesus Christ, and is given a special name, “kerygma.” Kerygma is characterized in many ways. This includes the church’s teaching and direction for each person to actively live the Gospel message and make the sacraments available.

The ‘Story of Salvation’ is an ongoing saga where every man, woman, and child from every part of history are participants. No single person gets left out. Why? Because God came to save all persons[3]. Every person needs salvation and this is contained in the story. Those who choose to seek salvation have a definite beginning, involving many characters, near countless events both great and small. Eventually, there will be an end.

You walk with Jesus here on earth by listening to God’s word and accepting the grace he provides through the Sacraments. Then at the end of life He will know you and you will know Him and he will take you to be with him forever. However, God does not force you to love and follow him. Any person rejecting God and His salvation will obtain a permanent death away from God for all eternity.

You have your personal story. As A Christian you must always strive to be incorporated into salvation history which is God’s saving plan through His grace for you. This is done when you choose to follow Him.

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[1] Basics of the Faith: A Catholic Catechism – Dr. Alan Shreck, Servant Books; 1987. Chapter 2 page 30.

[2] Matt 16:18 And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.

Matt 28:18-20 “…..Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit,….”

[3] John 12:32 “… I will draw all men to myself.”

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Kerygma(from the Greek word κήρυγμα kérugma) is a Greek word used in the New Testament for "preaching" (Luke 4:18-19, Romans 10:14, Matthew 3:1). It is also related to teaching as well.

A Covenant is an agreement or a binding contract. It is a seal or pact between two parties. It is seen in the Bible also as a promise from God.

God’s Covenants

Contrary to what God had originally intended, the sin of the first man, Adam,[1] created a separation from God, placing all humanity in a disastrous predicament. Because of the effects of the loss of God’s sanctifying grace and the separation from God, man longs for communion and to be restored to God. Adam’s sin created an eternal gap between man and God from which man had no means at all to bridge, heal, or restore.

God not wanting to leave man lost in hopelessness, reveals His plan to restore communion with man. The initial part is a shadow of preparation beginning God’s plan which at first is quite simple but purposefully and intentional. A main feature in salvation history is the covenants or ‘promises’ God makes to mankind. Beginning with a promise to Adam and Eve, later to Noah, then selecting Abraham and building a nation from him that would be the focus of God’s plan of salvation for man. Later He makes one with Moses, then to David and the prophets. Finally, the greatest and unbreakable covenant he makes through the blood of His Son Jesus Christ.

A Covenant is an agreement or a binding contract. It is a seal or pact between two parties. It is seen in the Bible also as a promise from God. The word seal is important because it emphasizes not only the contractual aspect but that a change is being made. The word covenant comes from the people of the Bible from the root word meaning “to cut.” Expanded on this means, a covenant involved the spilling of blood.

Genesis chapter 7 tells of God allowing a world-wide flood to destroy the evil which had spread upon the earth. But God saves Noah and his family. At the end of the flood, Noah makes an offering marked by the blood of animals, to God. Their God promises (a covenant) not to destroy the earth by flood ever again [2] Some generations after Noah God chooses and calls Abram. Abram is faithful to God and He promises to make Abram the “father of a multitude of nations.” God makes a covenant with Him and changes his name to Abraham.[3] This covenant is marked by the personal blood of circumcision[4].

In later generations, Abraham’s descendants become a people known as Hebrews and end up in Egypt where they become very numerous. The Egyptians decided to enslave them. God calls Moses and uses Him to free the Hebrews. This event is significant because it is to Moses, that God reveals Himself by name as “I am who Am.”[5] The significance goes further in that in the Near East, to know someone by name is believed to have some influence over them in that there is a developing friendship. This marks a major step forward in the relationship between God and mankind, in this case, the Hebrews (or Jewish people).[6]

Once the Hebrews are freed from slavery by the power of God, He has Moses lead them out into the wilderness. Once there, God calls Moses to Mount Sinai and instructs Moses to tell the Jewish people:

“Now therefore if you will obey my voice and keep my covenant , you shall be my own possession among the people;” Exodus 19:5

In this covenant God gives Moses the Ten Commandments. The covenant is marked by a sacrifice of an animal and the sprinkling of the animal’s blood on the people.

Covenants are important because they convey God’s love and for the good of man, require a response. They tell of God’s abundant initiative to reach down from heaven towards earth to save mankind. Covenants of the Old Testament were a way to prepare humanity for the New Covenant in His Son Jesus Christ. This new covenant fulfills the promise God made to Adam and Eve in Genesis 3:15.

The covenant of the New Testament or New Covenant is good news. It is the promise of forgiveness of sin and a restored communion with God which is delivered to those who believe in His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus himself in the shedding of His blood on the cross becomes the mediator of this New Covenant. His sacrifice on the cross becomes the “blood of the lamb” which permanently binds this covenant. More of this will be explained through the lessons. But the takeaway here is the word covenant and God’s action of constantly reaching down toward man to save him.

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[1] Genesis Chapter 3.

[2] Genesis 9:9-17 Behold I will establish my Covenant with you and your descendants after you, ….

[3] Genesis 17:1-8 “….. I will establish a covenant between me and you ….. and to your descendants…”

[4] Genesis 17:9-16 “… Every male among you shall be circumcised…..”

[5] Exodus 3:14

[6] Basics of the Faith: A Catholic Catechism – Dr. Alan Shreck, Servant Books; 1987. Chapter 2 page 35.

God is the beginning and the end!

He is the beginning of all that is a true reality and the end conclusion or purpose of all that exists. He is the beginning of all help and solutions for mankind. The quintessential end (or last word) to a definitive and lasting help for mankind. He is the beginning of all our hopes and the lasting end to our desires. He is the beginning and end (Last Word) to our happiness. He is the Alpha and the Omega.

Marcus J. Tamayo

Maker of Heaven and Earth, of all things visible and invisible.

All stories have a beginning. For mankind, it begins even before the first man puts his imprint onto the earth. The Nicene Creed speaks of God as the “Maker of Heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.” When using the word ‘maker’ it refers to “Creator.” God is the Creator of all things and His glory is seen in his power to create.

God as the Creator contains two important truths. First, creation obtains its beginning from God. Prior to the existence of anything there was nothing, only God. The creation of anything from the beginning has its source in God. God creates the existence of all that there is from nothing. The second truth is, that all things have and maintain their existence from God. This is not to say that everything is God. It says the existence of all creation is maintained by God in that every substance and created being exists because of God’s will.

This agrees with the earliest revelations found in the Bible which indicate God created all things from nothing. In the Apostle’s Creed it says; “Creator of Heaven and earth.” Both creeds speak an essential truth of God as the Creator. The Nicene Creed simply expands on the thought.

The essential truth of God as creator is another acknowledgment of God’s Divinity. Sometimes God is referred to as “The Supreme Being” which as a title is not entirely accurate. Because God is not at the top of a hierarchy of created beings. Also because “God is Being.” All beings have their existence from God. However, it may help somewhat to ascend the thought of God’s Almighty Being. Just so long as God is not one of many supreme beings. This would be a false notion and paganism.

In addition to what was stated above, another truth about God is; that no other gods exist. And God is above and outside of all creation. All beginnings including yours come from Him. God, on the other hand, is not created. He is self-existing, relying on nothing for his existence. God Himself is all-perfect, all-powerful, does not have a beginning nor end, and is infinitely Spirit. God reveals Himself in these words from Isaiah and in the book of Revelation:

I am the First, and I am the Last, and besides me there is no God.

(Isaiah 44:6)

“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last,

the beginning and the end.” (Revelation 22:13)

Such passages convey that God is self-existing, He does not owe His existence to any other being. In the discussion about covenants mentioned previously, it draws from the Old Testament where God appears to Moses on Mount Sanai in the form of a burning bush. Moses asked for His name. God said; I am who am. (Exodus 3:14) The Hebrews were the people of God in the Old Testament of the Bible. In the Hebrew language, “I am who am,” is the way to indicate God always existed without a beginning and He has no end. Today God is still referred to as “The Great I Am.”

“......all things visible and invisible.”

In the Nicene Creed, “all things visible and invisible,” professes there are entities (objective realities) that you may not even know about which are created by God. Certain entities may be such that you are incapable of knowing or knowing completely. Therefore they can remain in whole or in part as a mystery. Yet in things both visible and invisible, they exist whether you know about them or not. Their existence is based on, and dependent upon God creating them and not you knowing about them fully or in part. Such entities involved include faith hope and love. But also things beyond your ability to comprehend.

The Christian’s professed belief understands that God, as pure being, creates from nothing and with nothing. Only the One True God can do this. God as pure being is not some impersonal cosmic dust, gas, force, or distant entity. God does not come from a progression of gods who perfected themselves over time and rely on the previous one for their existence. God is not some super-being floating somewhere in the recesses of space. God is above and outside of space and time. God is not limited by space and time for God created space and time.

A Short Note About the Bible

A Brief About the Bible.

What is the Bible.

As your Journey continues, additional biblical references will be made to support and explain the truths taught by the Catholic Faith. The intention of learning the faith is not to make you (A candidate within faith formation) a Bible scholar. However, the Bible is a necessary part of your Faith Journey and will always e The Bible has much to say about God, His truth, and matters of faith. It is from within scripture where God speaks.[1] The Bible remains an important part of your Faith Journey until you die.

The Bible is simply not just another book. The Bible is a library of many books. The Bible is inspired by God’s Holy Spirit. The Greek word for inspired is theopneustos (θεόπνευστος, ον) pronounced: “Thee-o-nyoo-stos.” This word literally means “God breathed.” In the Bible, the “Breath of God” is a reference to the Holy Spirit. It is used to infer that God’s Spirit doing something new. It is also the inspiration given by the Holy Spirit to the writers of scripture. The Bible is God’s word and it becomes a way to come to know God.

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Theopneustos: Greek: (θεόπνευστος, ον) pronounced “Thee-o-nyoo-stos.” ‘God breathed’ – This word is used to express the belief of the inspiration by the Holy Spirit.
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The Bible for the faithful, is the written word of God. It is the book of the church which contains the revelation of God. This in turn is committed to His Church for the instruction and edification of all mankind. Therefore, the Bible becomes important in the liturgy of the Church[2]. as well as for teaching. This importance is for the church to operate in union with God’s Holy Spirit to convey God’s plan of salvation for mankind which includes His intended sanctification for those who choose to follow God’s path to holiness. The Scriptures have always been an important source in the prayerful life of the church and a living source for the action of Christians.

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Sanctification - the act or process of acquiring sanctity, of being made or becoming holy.
This is done through the grace of Jesus Christ.
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The Bible can seem complex, long and overwhelming; where should I start?

There are three good places to start: Begin with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) and then go into the rest of the New Testament. The other good place to start are the Psalms of the Old Testament. Read also the first two books of the Bible which are Genesis and Exodus.

In the Bible

The Bible did not drop from heaven. It was written by authors who were inspired by the Holy Spirit of God. The Bible was not written as one book all at one shot. The Bible is a compendium or library of many books (Originally scrolls) that were written by many different authors, across a period of about 1600 years (1500 BC – 100 AD). The pre-history and historical context itself covers approximately 4000 years.

The Bible is divided into two main groups: The Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament covers those events and revelations before the birth of Jesus Christ. This is the larger portion of the Bible (about 2/3rds of the Bible). The New Testament covers the Birth of Jesus, the life and teachings of Jesus, and goes up to the beginning of the early Church.

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[1] ST. Jerome: “When we pray we speak to God; but when we read, God speaks to us.”

[2] Liturgy of the Church” - Lesson 9 discusses sacraments and goes into more detail about Liturgy.

Divine Revelation

God revealing himself to mankind is known as ‘Divine Revelation.’ God makes Himself known for the sake of everyone, along with parts of the mysterious plan of His will for mankind and the world[1]. Within the Bible, are constant reminders God is there for mankind, revealing His loving plan of salvation. In divine revelation, God conveys certain truths to individuals in the Bible as a way of intervening in man’s story. This is done to reassure mankind that they are not forgotten. God’s revelation is meant to be announced to everyone as the authentic Word of God and His revealed truth.

God loves you very much and shows this by not abandoning you in your own story to your broken sinful nature. The Bible, reveals God offering his benevolence in many ways. God does not remain aloof and far away from mankind’s history and He does not remain anonymous. It is the same for you. God is not aloof nor anonymous in His call to you. Woven into the fabric of human history as shown in the stories of the Bible where God is saying, “Knock, knock, It’s me again! You know, the one who created you! Are you listening?” “You know the one who loves you unconditionally, provided all creation for you and you keep ignoring!”(Paraphrased of course) [2]

God’s revelation as disclosed in the Bible is important for mankind’s history. Making it a valuable tool for your journey/pilgrimage towards God. In the Lesson 1 story “A Close Encounter,” there is a reference to maps and notebooks used to help those seeking the treasure. Well, the analogy of the map can be applied to the Bible.

Transformation which allows oneself (Your soul) to be changed through an encounter with God’s grace can be recognized through God’s revelation found in the Bible. Transformation is essential for the Christian and those seeking to become a Christian. It in a way is the purpose of Christ coming to earth for your salvation. ‘Transformation’ was mentioned at the end of Lesson 1b.[3] More about transformation continues through the lessons. As part of your conversion and subsequent transformation, the Bible (The map) becomes an excellent aide as a guide and in prayer.

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[1] Dei Verbum I:6 - God chose to show forth and communicate Himself and …… His will regarding the salvation of men.

[2] Matt 7:7-8 ….knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds;….

[3] Lesson 1b pages 25-26 in the printed version

What follows is an extremely high-level outline of certain points in the Bible and some Historical timelines surrounding Biblical events.

There is a Beginning to the Story of Salvation

Adam and Eve

“In the beginning,” Genesis states God intended creation to remain good and duly in His presence. This included man. However, Adam and Eve succumb to Satan’s temptation and sinned against God. This is the beginning of Sin coming into the world because the first humans decided “I want to control and determine all outcomes!” Thus, sin created a rift between God and mankind which mankind could not repair. After this God promises a redeemer as salvation for mankind.

Cain Kills Abel

Adam and Eve begin to have children. There first sons are Cain and Abel. It does not take long for sin to spoil man resulting in Cain killing his brother Abel out of jealousy. God once again intervenes. Adam and Eve would have more children and soon the population of the world begins to grow.

Man grows sinful

From Adam to his other son Seth (as well as Cain) other generations begin to follow. Little by little these generations disregard and ignore God. So, they fell into great sin. Man left to his own devices becomes extremely corrupt. So much so that God laments having created man and puts forth a plan to punish them by allowing them to be destroyed with a flood.

The Flood & Noah

The only righteous man close to God was Noah. Therefore, God has Noah build an ark (Large boat). Noah and his family are spared the destruction of the flood. Through the sons of Noah (Ham, Shem and Japheth) are the families and tribes of the earth born.

Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9)

Soon mankind becomes proud, arrogant, and manipulative. King Nimrod decides to build a tower to the heavens as a boast to God. This displeases God and God Intervenes. God confuses their speech and scatters the tribes across the world.

Abraham

Afterward, God begins to unfold His plan of salvation for mankind. He chooses a good and faithful man named Abram. Because he is specially selected by God, God changes his name to Abraham and changes His wife Sarai to Sarah. God converses with Abraham and provides for His welfare. Abraham puts his faith in God. God makes a covenant with Abraham. Abraham is seen as righteous because of his faith in God.

Melchizedek

Abraham is blessed by the Priestly-King Melchizedek.

Sodom and Gomorrah

God providentially saves Abraham’s nephew Lot more than once. In one case God intervenes because of the heinous sins of gross hedonism and moral depravity committed in the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. God through His angels remove Lot and His family then allows Sodom and Gomorrah to be destroyed.

Isaac

Abraham has a son Isaac. Isaac in turn gets married to Rebekkah. Isaac and Rebekkah are faithful to God, They are blessed by God, and have two sons Esau and Jacob.

Jacob / Sons of Jacob

Jacob obtains the birthright from Isaac stealing it from his brother Esau. Jacob struggles with God. Jacob marries two sisters, Leah and Rachel. From Jacob comes twelve sons.

Joseph

One of Jacob’s youngest sons, Joseph, through the scheming of his older brothers is sold into slavery and sent to Egypt. Joseph puts his faith in God and God allows him to interpret dreams which is noticed by Pharaoh of Egypt. This turns out be providential for not only Egypt by the surrounding countries including Jacob and his other sons.

Jacob in Egypt: 1600 - 1250BC

Through providential events, Jacob moves His entire family to Egypt. So, Jacob with his twelve sons and their families move into Egypt. They stay for over 350 years. At first, they get along with the Egyptians. Jacob’s Hebrew descendants in later generations would find the Egyptians turn bitter towards them.

The Exodus

1250 – 1200BC

Some centuries go by and the descendants (the Hebrews) of Jacob become more numerous than the Egyptians. Under the Egypt’s king or Pharaoh and the Egyptians, bitterness and hostility develops toward the Hebrews and so the Egyptians enslave them. In their bondage of slavery under the Egyptians they cry out to God.

Moses

God chooses Moses as the means he will use to lead the Hebrews out of Egypt. Moses works wonders and signs to try and convince Pharaoh to set the slaves free. 10 plagues strike the Egyptians and it isn’t until the last one where Pharaoh decides to let the Hebrews go free.

God Delivers the Hebrews from the Egyptians

The Hebrew people leave Egypt. The Hebrews are gone for a few days when Pharaoh becomes obstinate; having a change of heart he pursues the Hebrews with his Army. God keeps the Army away from the Hebrews with a Pillar of Fire. God then opens the sea and allows the Hebrews to escape through the sea to the other side. God lifts the pillar of fire thus prompting Pharaoh’s army to pursue the Hebrews through the parted sea. As the Egyptians enter the open sea, God closes the waters over the Egyptians allowing them to be destroyed and thus delivering the Hebrews from their slave masters.

The Ten Commandments

Moses leads the Israelites (Hebrew descendants of Jacob) out of slavery in Egypt. Once free from the Egyptians, the Israelites Journey into the Sinai wilderness. It is here where God gives the Ten Commandments to Moses who delivers it to the Israelites. Through Moses God issues a decree for the Israelites to follow His Commandments.

The Hebrew rebel against Moses

After their freedom from slavery by the Egyptians, the Hebrew rebel against Moses. It is more than a begrudging rebellion. It turns to idolatry and debauchery. With this God punishes the Hebrews and causes them to wander in the desert for forty years.

Arrival in the Promised Land 1200BC

Moses charges Joshua to take his place as leader of the Israelites as they enter the Promised Land. Joshua leads the Israelite people, during which many battles are fought. God intervenes and destroys Jericho in front of the Israelites.

Judges

1200-1000 BC The Judges rule the Israelites after the death of Joshua. God reveals Himself to Samuel.

Monarchy of Israel

Samuel anoints Saul as first king (1000 BC). Samuel Anoints David as the next King (1000 – 965 BC). David’s son Solomon Rules after David dies (965 – 922 BC).

After Solomon dies the Kingdom gets divided into north and south (922 – 587 BC). Hebrews are now known as Israelites. After subsequent generations with kings, the Israelites become corrupt.

The Babylonians capture and enslave Israelites. (587-538 BC).

From the time of Judges through the Davidic Kingdom and into their exile, God provided prophets who would remind the people of God and His ways. Many times, the Israelites as well as surrounding tribes would sin greatly before God. The Prophets would come to provide direction from God. Sometimes they were listened to, other times they were not. Still other times the prophets were put to death.

(538 BC – 333 BC) Restoration by Ezra and Nehemiah. Israel is then dominated by the Persians.

Alexander the great / the Seleucid generals (333 – 175BC)

Maccabean revolt (175 – 135BC)

Hasmonian Era: Jewish independence (135 – 63BC)

Some of this period is mentioned in the Book of Maccabees.

The Roman general Pompeii Conquers the Middle East, including Israel and Egypt. (63 - 1BC)

Jesus is Born

(year 0 A.D ‘Anno. Domine’.) The incarnate word of God as God’s son appears on earth in the form of a child who is Jesus Christ. Born in Bethlehem to the Virgin Mary who is betrothed to Joseph. Joseph is from the family line of the House of King David who lived centuries before. Though Joseph and Marry were poor; Jesus Birth in this house was to fulfill the prophecy God made that from the house of David a Savior would be born.

Jesus Christ is the savior of all mankind. All men go through Him to get to heaven. Without him we cannot be saved. He is the redemption promised by God to save all mankind from their sins..

Jesus the Son of God, lives among us for thirty-three years. He is crucified, dies and after three days rises from the grave. He reveals his power and glory to the Apostles. He tells them to go out to all the world, baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and preach the good news.

The Acts of the Apostles. The apostles preach the gospel.

The full history of the church continues up to and including today.

Now the Story includes you and me!!

Your Story with and in God

In your own life story, as you journey with God, it is beneficial to consider why God made you. The church teaches; that God made you as a way of showing His goodness. In His goodness you are created so that you may know, love, and serve God. All this is done by God for you to be in His presence and everlasting joy in heaven. The faithful come not only to learn about God, but more importantly, to know Him, love Him, and serve Him. Through Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who teaches the faithful through the Catholic Church which is guided by His Holy Spirit, you are drawn not only to be within Christ but to allow ‘The Trinity’[1] to dwell in you as well.

In your faith journey, your individual story now becomes a branch of Jesus’ act of salvation. In choosing to follow God, from His continued goodness, you become an intimate part of the story He wants to tell![2] Remember, you have free will. God will not force you, therefore you must choose. You make the choice to follow Him, when you are baptized and receive the other sacraments of initiation (more on this in a later lesson). Afterward, you still must continuously choose to follow his will daily.

It is with God’s will and by His will when you choose to follow Him, you grow spiritually more and more. This spiritual growth is an aspect of conversion and is a changing process(transformation). By choosing to follow God closely you come to know God more and more. Jesus tells us to “Remain in my Love…”.(John 15:9)

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[1] The Trinity: God the Father, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit

[2]John 15:9: By this is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.

Rite of Acceptance

This segment is a brief detour to make you aware of an approaching interlude within OCIA. At its reintroduction coming from Vatican II, the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults(RCIA), sought to provide and revive ancient Christian rites for the prospective converts to Catholicism. In which participants(candidates) are introduced to aspects of Catholic beliefs and practices. At the early stage of OCIA formation, you move forward in another phase within Christ’s plan of salvation by participating in a rite called, “The Rite of Acceptance.”

The Rite of Acceptance is a public rite where you indicate your commitment to the OCIA process. It is a simple approach where you go before your church community to publicly acknowledge you are committing yourself to learn the faith and you are asking the community of believers to pray for you.. This rite marks the beginning of a period of study and reflection which is called the Catechumenate where you are no longer an inquirer but now become a catechumen. It is not an initiation into the faith. Any person on the OCIA journey can change their mind at the last minute.

The Rite of Acceptance is conducted during a mass where those looking to enter the Catholic Church are presented by their God-parents to the church community. The purpose is to allow the inquirer to proclaim their intent to take their Faith Journey seriously. You will not have to make any speeches. The priest and the community will pray over you. You with your godparent are guided through a series of prayers. As an example, the priest will indicate blessings over your eyes, ears, etc. so that they are “open to the word of God.” As the priest does this your sponsor/godparent will make a sign of the cross over your eyes, ears, etc..

Your mentors will go over the process with you and you will be allowed to know what the process is like. Your sponsor/godparent needs to come with you to the instruction and to the Rite itself. The sponsor/godparent is essential to the Rite and will have things to do. A specific date and time for the mass will be provided to you.

About the Holy Mass Part I

During your OCIA lessons, explanations about the Mass are important therefore are provided. You will learn what the parts of the Holy Mass are about.

Entering the Church for Mass

An understanding of the Mass starts by entering the Church building itself. The entrance to the church sometimes referred to as the “The back of the church” is called the vestibule. The size, look, and function of the vestibule vary from church to church. However, there are some items that are common.

One item found at the entrance of the church is a holy water font. You dip your fingers into the water and bless yourself with the words associated with baptism; “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” These words remind the Catholic of their Baptism (in the case of the candidate the baptism to come) and grace which flows into your life freely from this sacrament as well as the other sacraments.

From there you proceed to the seats referred to as pews. Before entering the pew, you genuflect towards the altar. This is a sign of reverence toward God and a personal sign of homage and surrender to God. To genuflect you bend one knee to the ground and make the sign of the cross.

The Introductory Rites

Opening – Sign of the Cross

The opening of the Mass begins with the “Introductory Rites.” The community of those gathered for the celebration of the Mass begins together with a Sign of the Cross “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” As Catholics, this is in many forms of prayer. As a sign of Baptism, it acknowledges that Catholics are set apart to follow Christ.

When you say these words, you are following what is found with many persons throughout the Old Testament of the Bible. They would call upon the name of the Lord for help, strength, reverence His holy name, for His blessing into their lives as well as for worship. When using these words, you also are inviting God’s presence, invoking His holy name as a blessing, seeking His Aide as well as for worship. You are asking God to consecrate this moment of worship. It is God who consecrates. It is not you or any person who consecrates lest we should boast.

The action of physically making the sign of the cross as a ritual can be said to be prophetically foreshadowed in Ezekiel 9:4: and the LORD said to him:

Pass through the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and mark an X(tav) on the foreheads of those who grieve and lament over all the abominations practiced within it.

This is the mark of the faithful followers of God. This ‘X’ is the last letter of the Hebrew alphabet; the ‘tav’.

This letter in Paleo Hebrew (The lettering used at the time Ezekiel was written) resembles a slanted ‘T’ or lopsided ‘X.’ The equivalency to this letter in the Greek language is the “Tau” or T which resembles the Cross. One of the meanings of the Hebrew letter ‘tav’ itself is ‘Covenant.’ It is a sign of protection. It is a sign of fidelity. This sign for Christians becomes an overt statement that we choose to be faithful to God by following His ways and not the ways of the world.

The Lord be with you

The opening greeting by the priest is: “The Lord be with you!” The community responds; “and with your spirit!” While far from being a pious or religious way of saying “Hello” it is significant in another way. From a biblical perspective, these words were used by God through His prophets. The prophets would use these words to those being called by God. The address of these words preceded the call of those who are to do God’s will and be a part of God’s plan of salvation. It is a constant reminder that God will be with us.

When the community responds; “and with your spirit” we acknowledge the unique role of the Holy Spirit in the priest. In the ordination of the priest, the Holy Spirit comes to act in a particular and unique way which enables the priest to offer the Mass.

Because now a sacred and Holy moment is being entered, it is prudent to Humble ourselves before God. Therefore the priest introduces the penitential Act by Praying “Brethren, let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.”

The Confiteor (Penitential Act)

This is a prayer said by the priest and community:

“I confess to Almighty God and to you my brothers and sisters that I have sinned…. .”

This is a prayer that appeals to the mercy of God and an act of humility. We confess our failings to God. We are reminded to live a life centered on Christ. Not simply by avoiding sin, but by living as Christ did; with and in His love. We are called to self-sacrifice.

After words the priest says. “May almighty God …. Everlasting life.” The community says, “Amen.”

The Kyrie

The Kyrie is the prayer which follows the Confiteor. This prayer is known in the vernacular as the “Lord Have Mercy.” The community can either pray this in the vernacular (English, Spanish etc.) or in the original Greek. Often this is sung. The name Kyrie or the longer name Kýrie, eléison comes originally from the Greek.

Lord Have Mercy Kýrie, eléison

Christ Have Mercy Christe, eléison

Lord Have Mercy Kýrie, eléison

In praying this the community follows what is conveyed in scriptures numerous times where certain individuals are asking for mercy. It is not simply an asking or action of “throwing ourselves on the mercy of the court” for fear of God’s wrath. From a biblical perspective, we are asking God for help for those things we struggle with; weaknesses, lack of faith, and uncertainties.

The Kyrie is a humble cry for God to have mercy on all our misgivings and a plea for help. We are asking God to help us on our Journey, for the things we are discerning or struggles in our spiritual life. We also entrust those we love to God’s care by asking for mercy on behalf of them.[1]

The Gloria (Glory to God)

After the Kyrie the Community prays the “Gloria:”

“Glory to God in the Highest,

And on Earth peace to people of good will.

We praise you, we bless you

We adore you, we glorify you,

We give you thanks for your great glory,

Lord God, Heavenly King,

O God, almighty Father.

Lord Jesus Christ, Only Begotten Son,

Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father,

You take away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us;

You take away the sins of the world, Receive our prayer;

You are seated at the right hand of the Father, Have mercy on us.

For you alone are the Holy One,

You alone are the Lord,

You alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ,

With the Holy Spirit,

In the Glory of God the Father. Amen. ”

This prayer is typically sung as inspired by the angels. We find these words sung by the angels at the time of the birth of Christ.[2] The Gloria is done in the Introductory Rite because it is here where the community gathered for the Mass are preparing for a sacred encounter with God.

It is proper to give this praise to God because first, we will encounter God in the reading of the scriptures which is the next part of the Mass. Then we encounter God in the second main part of the Mass which is the ‘Liturgy of the Eucharist’ where we receive the sacrifice of Jesus in Holy Communion. The prayerful singing of The Gloria is properly suited because it is a synopsis of salvation history in praise.

The Collect

Once the Gloria is completed there is a short prayer offered by the priest. It is a gathering of prayers for the community and offers them up to God. This concludes the Introductory Rite. What follows is the Liturgy of the Word. The Liturgy of the Word consists of the readings from the bible.

This is a prayerful approach to God. At this point, we are being prepared to encounter God first through His Word of revelation. Then we encounter Him in the Eucharist. After The Collect the community is seated for the reading out of the Bible. This is the next part of the Mass.

________________________________________________

[1] Matt 15:22 A mother goes to Jesus and asks for mercy because her daughter is possessed by a demon.

[2] Luke 2:13-14 13 And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: 14 “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

The Sponsor/Godparent

You should have a Sponsor/Godparent selected. This is someone that can walk with you on your RCIA journey and afterward. It is best to have someone local. Before the Rite of Acceptance, you will need to have selected a sponsor (godparent). Should you not have one yet, you will want to seek one out. The sponsor (godparent) must be fully initiated [1] into the catholic faith and practicing the faith as well.

“A person to be baptized is to be given a sponsor who assists an adult in Christian initiation… A sponsor also helps the baptized to lead a Christian life..” [2]

The sponsor (godparent) may not be a parent.

The sponsor besides having all the sacraments, must be in full communion with the Church (observes the sacraments, goes to Mass every Sunday and is obedient to the laws of the Church). The sponsor/godparent is someone who comes with you to all of the rites, occasional classes, someone you discuss what you learned and must be there to help administer your sacraments.

When the situation is you are having difficulty obtaining a sponsor; bring this to the instructor or RCIA team’s attention right away. In case you have any questions whatsoever regarding this, bring this to the instructor or RCIA team’s attention right away.

__________________________________

[1] A person having received the sacraments of initiation which include; Baptism, Confirmation and First Holy Communion.

[2] Code of Canon Law 872

A Moment with Jesus: Jesus is the Vine

Jesus spoke in a way people could understand. During His time on Earth, most of the people were not very far removed from a life of agriculture. Jesus would speak in parables and metaphors which often used an agricultural setting as a backdrop. In the following scripture, Jesus speaks in terms of a grapevine.

Jesus is the Vine and We are the Branches

1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower. 2 He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and every one that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit. 3 You are already pruned because of the word that I spoke to you.4 Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me.

5 I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing. 6 Anyone who does not remain in me will be thrown out like a branch and wither; people will gather them and throw them into a fire, and they will be burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask for whatever you want, and it will be done for you. 8 By this is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.

9 As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.

11 “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete. 12 This is my commandment: love one another as I love you. 13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 I no longer call you slaves, because a slave does not know what his master is doing. I have called you friends, because I have told you everything I have heard from my Father.

16 It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you. 17 This I command you: love one another.

(John 15:1 -17)

Jesus’ analogous use of a grapevine is quite vivid. Anyone who has raised grapes will understand that to get good grapes year to year; the vine must be pruned after the harvest. The old unusable parts must be removed otherwise the plant will not have continued growth and yield new fruit. It is the same with us. Jesus as the vine dresser (gardener) removes in us all that is not usable. Those parts in us which are fruitful He builds up. 2 He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and every one that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit. This is the way Jesus chooses to transform your way of being. We grow new fruit bringing forth a constant newness of self which is growth towards God.

Like the vine, we can only produce fruit as long as we remain part of the main shoot. If we break away or remain separated; we simply wither and die(spiritually) and all that is left for us is to be tossed into the fire. 6 Anyone who does not remain in me will be thrown out like a branch and wither; people will gather them and throw them into a fire, and they will be burned.

We are to remain within the Body of Christ, not as passive observers. We are to be animated by Christ’s living word which is a constant renewal of grace. This grace only comes from Christ given to us by the sacraments. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask for whatever you want, and it will be done for you.

Jesus goes on to provide a key aspect of how we remain part of the main shoot (The shoot is GOD/Jesus). This is through love. 9 As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.

Self Reflection

In the Appendix read the sections: “The Bible” & “What is the Bible.”

Consider these thoughts and ask yourself these personal questions:

• As I walk in faith, I must be willing to spend time knowing how and what God revealed in the Bible. I must be willing to spend time reading passages in the bible so that I become familiar not just with “ancient” stories but also those stories that are part of the beginning of my journey.

• Do I realize that my story is connected with the stories of others around me?

• Do I realize that my beginning extends back before the first man and woman were created by God?

At this point in time, if you do not have a sponsor (godparent), you will want to seek one out. The sponsor (godparent) must be fully initiated into the catholic faith and practicing the faith as well.

Answer the Questions

1.) Why Did God create me?

2.) The Bible came from heaven when some Angels dropped it onto Moses lap!

True / False

3.) The Catholic Church has as part of its mission to participate in a very special way in the ___________ of _______________

4.) The Church participates in the Story of salvation is by making the __________________ available.

5.) What is Divine Revelation?

6.) A covenant is a(n)____________________________.

7.) Number these people and events in proper order

Divided Kingdoms

God Delivers the Hebrews from the Egyptians

The Flood & Noah

The Ten Commandments

Babylonian Captivity

Greek Period

Cain Kill Abel

Moses

Isaac

Jacob

Jacob in Egypt

Monarchy of Israel

Jesus Christ is born

Roman Conquest

Sodom and Gomorrah

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Lesson 2: I Believe In One God

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Lesson 4: God and Mankind

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