Advent - Christmas - Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide
Transcription
Advent - Christmas - Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide
Catholic Resource & Information Service 112 Kintore Street Thebarton SA 5031 PO Box 179 Torrensville Plaza SA 5031 P:8301 6869 E:[email protected] Spring 2012/Summer2013 Newsletter Supplement Advent - Christmas To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long. Ps 25:1-2,4-5 Iveron Mother of God, Mt Athos CONTENTS: Advent and Christmas Resources: Books, CDs DVDs and websites Teaching Advent and Christmas Prayer and meditation for Advent and Christmas CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY DATES: CLOSED: 20 December 2012 – 20th January 2013 th REOPENING: Monday 21st January 2013 Annotated Bibliography of selected Advent and Christmas Resources held at CRIS Daybreaks: Daily reflections for Advent and Christmas by Ronald Rolheiser (Liguori Press) 2005. 242.33/ROL Daybreaks is a journey through the seasons of Advent and Christmas. Ronald Rolheiser guides the journey with searching insights and daily reflections on the mystery of the Incarnation. He notes that the season of Advent is a time to get in touch with our longing, and desire in this waiting for the coming of Christ. Rolheiser says we spend 98 per cent of our lives waiting for something else to happen to us and rarely do we find ourselves in what Henri Nouwen called a fully pregnant moment where we are happy where we are right now. This small book of daily reflections starting on the first Sunday of Advent and finishing with Epiphany presents us with a wealth of anecdotes for reflection and meditation. Ron Rolheiser, OMI Speaker, Columnist, Author The first Christmas: What the Gospels really teach about Jesus’s birth by Marcus J Borg & John Dominic Crossan (HarperOne Press) 2007. 232.921/BOR Marcus Borg and John Crossan set the nativity stories and their meanings in their first century context historically and, secondly, focus their meanings for Christians in the light of contemporary theology and understanding. The book is divided into three parts. Part I entitled Parable, Overture and Context looks at the stories of the First Christmas, parables and the context of the Christmas stories. Part II focuses on the Genealogy, Conception and Birth and outlines genealogy as destiny, the visit of Gabriel to Mary and David’s city of Bethlehem. Part III entitled Light, Fulfilment and Joy explores light against darkness, Jesus as the fulfilment of prophecy and joy to the world. Borg and Crossan acknowledge that the stories of the first Christmas are both personal and political. They challenge the status quo of most times and places. They note that they are not concerned with the factuality of the birth stories but rather what did and do these stories mean? The stories of the first Christmas contain the gospel in miniature. The authors note that they are parabolic overtures to Matthew and Luke and run parallel to the stories of Christ’s last week- Holy Week, Good Friday and Easter. Here just as darkness sought to extinguish the light in Herod’s plot to kill Jesus, so they do at the end of his life with his execution. But their success is superficial for his crucifixion is followed by Easter glory. The first Christmas adds to our understanding of Jesus, the meaning of his birth and life what it meant for the early church and what it means for us today. Watch for the Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas by various authors including Aquinas, Bonhoeffer, Rahner, Merton, Romero, Underhill, Eckhart, Nouwen and others (Plough Pub House) 2001. 242.33/WAT This book offers reflections from the 24 November through to 7 January, the day after Epiphany . The introduction states that “the essence of Advent is expectancy [and] it is also readiness for action – watchful for every opening and willingness to risk everything for freedom and a new beginning”. The contributors of this book offer us a guide for reflection, gratitude and readiness for action. Conversing with God in Advent and Christmas: Praying the Sunday Mass readings with lectio divina by Stephen Binz (The Word Among Us Press) 2012. 242.33/BIN Stephen Binz writes “If you often feel like your December calendar is more of a frenzied list of details to accomplish rather than an Advent calendar of holy anticipation, you might consider taking up the practice of lectio divina during these days. If the pre-Christmas rush is not balanced by the sacred waiting of Advent, you may find yourself physically and emotionally exhausted and spiritually empty by the time Christmas arrives. Make time to pray and listen to God and his word. As he changes your heart, you will experience the peaceful joy of the Incarnation.” This book provides practical ways for us to treasure within our hearts the word of God proclaimed in Advent and Christmas, and be transformed into people of joyful expectation. Advent and Christmas: Wisdom from St Vincent De Paul: daily Scripture and prayers together with Saint Vincent de Paul’s own words compiled by John Rybolt (Liguori Press) 2012. 242.33/RYB In this book each day’s passage begins with the words of Saint Vincent de Paul. Next is a related excerpt from Scripture which is followed by a prayer built on the ideas from the two preceding passages. Finally, an Advent or Christmas action suggests ways to apply the messages to daily life. Because the length of Advent varies, this book includes material for twenty-eight days. The daily readings make up Part I of the book. Part II begins with Christmas Day and contains materials for twelve days of the Christmas season. Part III proposes two optional formats for using each day as a part of a longer liturgical observance similar to Night Prayer combined with a version of the Office of Readings. The books offers ways to enrich the Advent/Christmas/Epiphany season of the liturgical year and set up a means by which individuals, families or groups can observe the true meaning of the season. The Birth of Jesus according to the Gospels by Joseph Kelly (Liturgical Press) 2008. 232.92/KEL This book focuses on a very limited area of the Scriptures – a total of four chapters from all of the New Testament, two each from two Gospels (Matt 1-2 and Luke 1-2). Both of these four valuable chapters contain the only accounts of Jesus’ birth and scholars call them the infancy narratives. Thanks to the feast of Christmas, they are the most widely known of all New Testament passages. Kelly’s book highlights the issues facing the early Christians as the gospels were being written, shows the difference between Matthew’s approach to an audience of Jewish converts and Luke’s writing for a primarily Gentile audience and offers an invitation to meet Jesus Christ arrived to fulfil God’s plan on earth for all people. The Christmas Story from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke Pictures from the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Abrams Books for young readers) 2009. 755.56074/CHR This picture book offers illustrations from The Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is interesting to note that artists from the period often portrayed members of the Holy Family and other important biblical figures in European dress of the time. This helped make their works of art immediately accessible to contemporary audiences. Plates include the Madonna and Child from the workshop of Giovanni Bellini, the Annunciation to the Shepherds by the Limbourg Brothers, The Annunciation attributed to Petrus Christus, The Arrival in Bethlehem attributed to Master I.C. among other beautiful pieces. NEW!! Exploring Advent with Luke : Four questions for spiritual growth by Timothy Clayton 2012/ 263.91 CLA NEW!! Rediscover Advent by Matthew Kelly 2011/ 242.332 KEL NEW!! Holding Jesus : Reflections on Mary the Mother of God by Alfred McBride, 2012/ 232.91 MCB Advent Storybook : 24 Stories to share before Christmas by Antonie Schneider, 2005/263.91 Books for Advent Title A coming Christ in Advent : essays on the gospel narratives preparing for the Birth of Jesus A shoot from the stock of Jesse : Meditations for Advent Advent & Lent activities for children: camels, carols, crosses and crowns Advent and Christmas Wisdom from St Benedict Advent and Christmas Wisdom from St. Thomas Aquinas Advent and Christmas Wisdom from Henri J M Nouwen Advent and Christmas with Thomas Merton Advent and Lent activities for children : camels, carols, crosses and crowns Advent is for children : Stories, activities, prayers Advent Readings from Iona Advent Services Advent Storybook : 24 Stories to share before Christmas Before and after Christmas : activities and ideas for Advent and Epiphany Celebrating Advent & Christmas liturgies with young children Child of the Light : walking through Advent & Christmas Classroom prayer services for the days of Advent and Lent Cloth for the cradle : worship resources and readings for Advent, Christmas & Epiphany Cloth for the cradle : worship resources and readings for Advent, Christmas & Epiphany Colourful Advent : A new way to pray when words are inadequate Conversing with God in Advent and Christmas : Praying the Sunday Daybreaks : Daily reflections for Advent and Christmas Expecting the Unexpected : An Advent devotional guide Exploring Advent with Luke: questions for spiritual growth Jesus among us : daily advent prayers for families Liturgies for Advent weekdays My favourite Advent & Christmas activity book Rediscover Advent Sacred celebrations for Advent and Christmas Year C : Live the dream The Advent - Christmas book The gospel day by day through Advent The Jesse tree : an advent activity book The tallest candle : a story for Christmas Welcome the Word : celebrating the liturgy of the Word with children. Volume one. Advent - Trinity Sunday Author Brown, Raymond Call No. 226.206 Campbell, Michael Kielly, Sheila 242.33 263.9 Sutera, Judith Wisdom, Andrew Carl Nouwen, Henri J M Merton, Thomas Kielly, Sheila 242.2 242.33 242.33 263.91 263.9 Kelemen, Julie Woodcock, Brian Rogne, David G Schneider, Antonie O’Neal, Debbie Trafton 263.91 264.0272 264 263.91 263.91 Hopper, Barbara Mary 264.0272 Richardson, Beth A Costello, Gwen 263.91 264.020083 Wild Goose Worship Group Iona Community 264.0272 Merryweather, Sheila Julian Binz, Stephen J 263.91 D'Arcy, Paula Meeks, Blair Gilmer Clayton, Timothy Costello, Gwen McCarthy, Flor Erickson, Jenny Kelly, Matthew Wintour, Rina 263.91 263.91 263.91 263.91 264.0272 263.91 242.332 263.91 Arbogast, Joan Marie Moore, Brian Thompson, Katie Broadbent, Lynne Brown, Joan 263.91 263.91 242.33 232.921 264.02 263.91 242.33 Teaching Advent Title A Jesse Tree for Advent : Complete assemblies for juniors Advent and Christmas : Wisdom from St Francis of Assisi Advent and Christmas Activities for Families with Young Children Advent and Christmas with Fulton J Sheen Advent Angels : a host of stories, crafts, puzzles and things to do for the day of Advent Advent Posters Author Nicholls, Rachel Advent Reflections : Come, Lord Jesus Candles & conifers : resources for All Saints' and Advent Disturbing complacency : Preparing for Christmas First Festivals : Christmas Hear my cry : a daily prayer book for Advent Learning Centers for Advent and Lent Learning links to Christmas : Teacher resources for the religion class Lighted windows : an Advent calendar for a world in waiting Mission : Christmas : Youth programs & ideas for Advent My Catholic Advent and Christmas activity book Redeemer of the Nations, Come : An Advent Lessons & Carols The Advent Alphabet : a Christmas storybook with crafts to make for every day of Advent The Advent Jesse Tree : devotions for children and adults to prepare for the coming of the Christ child at Christmas The complete guide to Godly play (Vol 3) The Jesse Tree : daily readings for Advent The Vigil : keeping watch in the season of Advent What do you want for Christmas? An advent study for adults BK Call No. 242.33 Kruse, John V BK Rainone, Colleen D. BK 263.91 263.91 Bauer, Judy Doggett, Sue BK BK 263.91 263.91 POS 263.91 Dolan, Timothy Burgess, Ruth Bodenheim, Lisa Rock, Lois Burgess, Ruth Murphy, Doris BK BK BK BK BK BK 263.91 263.91 263.91 263.91 263.91 263.91 Silf, Margaret BK 263.91 Brooks, Bryan Galvin, Jennifer Schola Cantorum of St. Peter the Apostle Faulkner, Anne BK BK CD 263.91 263.91 783.65 BK 263.91 Lambert, Dean Meador BK 242.33 Berryman, Jerome Shuman, Thom Wright, Wendy Moore, James BK BK BK BK 268.432 263.91 263.91 263.91 Advent and Christmas Meditations Title Daybreaks : daily reflections for Advent and Christmas God is in the manger : Reflections on Advent and Christmas Igniting sparks of reconciliation and compassion : prayer and ritual for staff gatherings in Catholic schools today Joyous expectation : journeying through Advent with Mary Prepare the Way : daily meditations for Advent and Lent Preparing for Christmas with Richard Rohr : Daily meditations for Advent Shine on, star of Bethlehem : a worship resource for Advent, Christmas and Epiphany The essential Advent and Christmas handbook : a daily companion with a glossary of key terms Watch for the Light : readings for Advent and Christmas Author Rolheiser, Ron Bonhoeffer, Dietrich Abbott, Margaret BK BK Call No. 242.33 242.33 BK 264.02013 BK BK 242.332 242.332 BK 263.91 Duncan, Geoffrey BK 242.33 BK 242.33 BK 242.33 BK 242.33 BK 242.33 BK 242.332 Frisk, M Jean Liebenow, R. Mark Rohr, Richard When day is done : night time prayers through the Church Boyer, Mark G year With grateful hearts : Spiritual reflections for everyday living Yards of purple : stories for Advent Foulger, Sarah Advent and Christmas CDs and music Title A Festive Baroque Christmas [CD] CD Call No. 783.65 BK 783.65 Catholic Christmas Classics Vol VIII [CD] CD 783.65 Celebrating Good News : full colour images from Turvey Abbey [CD] Christmas Music from Medieval Hungary [CD] Christmas rhymes & carols Christmas Star : carols for the Christmas Season [CD] CD 231.3 CD BK CD 783.65 232.921 782.281723 CDK CD BK CD 782.281723 783.65 782.28 783.9 Best-Loved Carols. Author Tebbs, Philip and Victoria Anonymous 4 ROCK, Lois Cambridge Singers and Orchestra How far to Bethlehem? [CD kit] Light from Light Vol 2 [CD] My very first Christmas Carols [CD included] O Come Rejoicing : music for Advent and Christmas [CD] KEARNEY, Peter KENDZIA, Tom ROCK, Lois Prince of Peace : music for Advent and Christmas [CD kit] Redeemer of the Nations, Come : An Advent Lessons & Carols [CD] Rituals & reflections : Advent & Christmas : Year C [CD] Southern Star : a ceremony of carols [CD] Schutte, Dan Wintour, Rina CD CD 263.91 782.28 Ten more little fingers of Christmas [CD] Under your star [CD ] Hooty Toots Chinn, Andrew CD CD 783.65 232.9 CDK 783.65 Schola Cantorum of CD 783.65 St. Peter the Apostle Christmas Books Title Author A Christmas story Wildsmith, Brian A gift for the Christ Child: a Christmas folktale. Schlafer, Linda Away in a Manger : The Christmas Story Mackinnon, Debbie Before and after Christmas : activities and ideas for Advent Oneal, Debbie and Epiphany Trafton Behind the scenes Christmas Box, Su Caspar and the Star. Bosca, Francesca Catholic Christmas Carroll, Kathleen Celebrating Advent & Christmas liturgies with young children Hopper, Barbara Mary Child of the Light : walking through Advent & Christmas Richardson, Beth A Christmas Chandler,Clare Christmas fun : My first Bible activity book Lane, Leena Christmas rhymes & carols Rock, Lois Christmas story : a sparkling nativity play Call No. PBK 232.921 PBK 394.268282 BK 232.921 Cloth for the cradle : worship resources and readings for Advent, Christmas & Epiphany Come and see : a Christmas story Elijah's Angel [Picture book] Emma's Gift Franciscan Christmas Granny goes to Bethlehem I can make starry things for Christmas I can make things for Christmas Iona Community BK 263.91 Mayper, Monica Rosen, Michael J Idle, Molly Schaar Carroll, Kathleen Weston, Kathy Miller, Jocelyn Goodings, Christina Pasquali, Elena Krenzer, Rolf Hill, Susan Rock, Lois Wangerin, Walter Rock, Lois Erickson, Jenny [Big Book] Holder, Mig PBK 232.92 PBK 263.91 BK 394.2 BK 263.915 PBK 232.921 PBK 745.5 PBK 745.5 Eddy, Corbin BK 264.02 Carlstrom, Nancy Arbogast, Joan Marie Papa, Carrie Bevan, Clare Rowlands, Avril PBK 232.921 BK 263.91 Ituku's Christmas journey Jesus is born King of Kings Lion Christmas favourites for the very young [Picture book] Mary's first Christmas [Picture book] My book of Christmas My favorite Advent & Christmas activity book My very first Big Christmas tales : Good King Wencelas Papa Panov's Special Day : a classic folk tale adapted by Leo Tolstoy Preparing the liturgical year 2 : Lent - Easter and Advent Christmas Ten Christmas Sheep The Advent - Christmas book The Brightest star of all : Christmas stories for the family The Christmas Play The Christmas Sheep and other stories. BK 263.91 BK BK BK BK 232.921 232.921 263.915 264.0272 BK 263.91 BK BK BK BK 394.268282 263.91 232.921 232.921 PBK 394.2 PBK 232.921 PBK 232.921 PBK 263.91 PBK 232.921 PBK 232.921 BK 263.91 PBK 263.91 PBK 394.2 BK 242.335 PBK 246.7 PBK 232.921 Title The Christmas story The Christmas Story from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke The Christmas Story : a touch and feel Christmas Treasure Book The Christmas story with press out nativity play set The Christmas visitor. The First Christmas The First Christmas The First Christmas The first Christmas : Coloring and activity book The Jesse tree : an advent activity book The Journey to Bethlehem. The Lion Storyteller Christmas book. The Little Donkey: a Christmas story. The Not - So - Wise Man The riches and charm of Christmas The Road to Bethlehem The story of Christmas The tallest candle : a story for Christmas The Wonder of Christmas [Picture book] Three Wise Women Welcome the word : celebrating the liturgy of the Word with children. Volume one. Advent - Trinity Sunday Author Rock, Lois Call No. PBK 232.921 PBK 232.91 PBK 232.921 Apperley, Dawn Lussert, Anneliese Nolan, Allia Williams, Marcia Amery, Heather Richards, Virginia Thompson, Katie Molan, Chris Hartman, Bob Scheidl, Gerda Macdonald, Alan Scibiorski, Alice Emma Wildsmith, Brian French, Vivian Broadbent, Lynne Mackall, Dandi Daley Hoffman, Mary Brown, Joan PBK 232.921 PBK 232.921 PBK 263.91 PBK 232.921 PBK 232.921 Bk 232.921 BK 242.33 PBK 232.921 PBK 394.268282 PBK 232.921 PBK 232.91 BK 263.915 PBK 263.91 PBK 232.921 PBK 232.921 PBK 232.921 PBK 232.921 BK 264.02 Christmas stories, customs, craft, poetry and drama Title A long wait for a Messiah and 5 other dramas for tweens A stocking for Jesus Author Lee, Nate Arruda, Suzanne Middendorf Advent & Christmas Activities for Families with Young Children Rainone, Colleen Approaching Christmas Williams, Jane Baboushka: A traditional Russian folk tale. Scholey, Arthur Celebrations make & do : craft ideas which bring the festivals Chapman, Gillian to life Christmas Celebrations Wintour, Rina Christmas Keepsake : a treasury of best- loved stories and more Christmas Make & Do : craft ideas inspired by the story of the Chapman, Gillian first Christmas Christmas nativities and stories : the Christmas story told in a Van Mullekommost unusual way with nativity scenes, poems and stories from Cserep all over the world Call No. BK 246.7 PBK 394.2 BK BK PBK BK 263.91 263.91 394.2 745.5 BK 246.7 PBK 394.2 BK 263.91 BK 232.92 Title Christmas promise : easy dramas, speeches and reflections for children Christmas wrapped up! Clueless Christmas : drama 7 puppet plays for the Christmas season Don't miss the bus and 5 other dramas for tweens Easy ways to Christmas plays First Festivals : Christmas Hay & stardust : resources for Christmas to Candlemas I can make Angel things for Christmas I can make starry things for Christmas I can make things for Christmas Learning links to Christmas : Teacher resources for the religion classroom Lectionary-based Gospel dramas for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany Light the lamps Lion Christmas favourites : stories and prayers for the festive season Michael Foreman's Christmas Treasury My Catholic Advent and Christmas activity book My very first Christmas : Christmas stories for the very young My very first Christmas playtime [Picture book] Oh no, not the Nativity! : sketches through the church year Practical ways to Christmas plays Prayers & plays for Christmas and Holy Week The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey The Christmas Star : Easy Christmas dramas, speeches, and recitations for children The greatest gift : the story of the other wise man The Huron Carol The Jesse Tree The Lion Storyteller Christmas book : Traditional tales from around the world The Magic Saddle The Shine Man : A Christmas story The Star : a musical play The story of the other Wise man The tale of Three Trees The twelve days of Christmas Author Clark, Paul BK Call No. 263.91 BK 263.91 BK 822.4 Lee, Nate BK Howie, Vicki BK Rock, Lois BK Burgess, Ruth BK Miller, Jocelyn BK Miller, Jocelyn BK Goodings, Christina BK Ryan, Maurice BK 246.7 246.7 263.91 263.91 745.5 745.5 745.5 263.91 O’ConnellRoussell, Sheila Wild, Margaret Rock, Lois BK 246.72 Foreman, Michael Galvin, Jennifer Rock, Lois Rock, Lois Brandon, Andrew Jeffs, Stephanie Smith, Elizabeth J Wojciechowski, Susan PBK BK PBK PBK BK BK BK PBK PBK 823.3 BK 394.2 394.2 263.91 263.91 263.91 246.7 246.7 246.7 394.2 PBK 246.7 Summers, Susan De Brebeuf, Jean McCaughrean, Geraldine Hartman, Bob BK 263.91 PBK 394.2 BK 263.91 Mattingley, Christobel Quattlebaum, Mary Frawley-Mangan, Anne Van Dyke, Henry Hunt, Angela Elwell Wildsmith, Brian BK PBK 394.2 394.2 PBK 394.2 PBK 246.7 PBK 394.2 PBK 813 PBK 394.2 Advent & Christmas DVDs Title Contents Children's Heroes Of The 7 programs: Jesus birth and Youth. Jesus teaches and calls disciples. Jesus Bible : The New Testament heals and works miracles. Jesus struggles and opponents. Jesus suffering, death and resurrection. The Apostles and the early church. Paul's ministry and trials Discover The Church Year: This resource explains the Christian understanding of time, why we celebrate DVD 1: the Church Year, the concept of memorial, and how our celebrations relate to Introducing Sacred Time our human experiences. (15 min. 2006) The Church marks time as sacred by celebrating the Church Year. Christians re-live and enter the events of Jesus, celebrated and made present in the DVD 2: liturgy and sacraments. The Church Year sets up a series of times with the A Year With The Lord Lord. We know there are set days, moments, occasions when he expects us.The sacred cycle of the church Year is a sign of God's time, and this time is his offer of grace to us. From Advent to Pentecost - Ordinary Time - Saint days - Colours - the origin and meaning are clearly explained. (15 min. 2006) Go Look In The Manger Based on a true story. Set in 1966 8 year old Ricky tries to impress his classmates. He makes then breaks a promise to his mother. Ricky discovers his mother's forgiveness. Greatest Heroes and Legends of the Bible : The Nativity An animated story of the Nativity with an introduction by Charlton Heston. In God's Time : DVD Contents: Six reflections incorporating melodies. Accompanying booklet contains suggestions for use in schools and parishes for each reflection. 1. Harvest Thanks 2. We remember 3. Advent - Waiting to welcome 4. Lenten reflection - Change your heart 5. Seven Last words 6. The Bells of the Angelus A Celebration of The Liturgical Year Little Shepherd In the dark of night the fields around Bethlehem are alive with expectation. Wolves have been spotted and every shepherd is nervous, including young Joel and his family. Yet what is about to happen is not expected at all. As Joel embarks upon the journey of becoming a shepherd, he is afraid of the dangers that lie ahead. But he is about to discover that he need not face these dangers alone. An unexpected surprise will lead to the revelation that God provides the answer to every fear. The timeless story of Christmas with a twist. Duration 25 mins. Red Boots for Christmas Alone in his shop, with no family and few friends, Hans the shoemaker has never learned the true meaning of Christmas. While he mocks the townspeople's merry preparations, Hans is visited by an angel who promises a very special gift. Hans crafts a gift to give in return - the finest pair of Red Boots ever make. Hans learns the joys of sharing and fellowship and the spirit of Christmas as he receives the ultimate gift - a gift from God. The Animated Stories of The New Testament : The King Is Born Interactive DVD. Uses King James and New International Versions. Includes Adventure Quiz with 3 skill levels. "Beginning with Gabriel announcing God's blessed plan for Mary, this DVD brings all the elements of this timeless story to life. Journey with Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem and witness the humble birth of our Saviour together with the shepherds. The cunning plan of King Herod does not deceive the devoted wise men, but ultimately it is the Angel who intercedes to warn Joseph and Mary to flee into Egypt." The Candy Maker's Christmas August the candy maker is certain that he has made the perfect Christmas present for the royal family, but an encounter teaches him that the perfect present is the gift of Jesus. August learns a lesson in love and humility as his candy can becomes a popular Christmas reminder for people throughout the world. The First Christmas Crib : A Story of St. Francis of Assisi On the eve of Christmas in the year 1223, Francis of Assisi, with the help of some friends, recreated the scene of Jesus' birth in a cave above Greccio, Italy. The tradition of nativity dramas was an established practice but Francis' scene contained no human figures -- just an ox and an ass standing by a hay filled manger. 12 mins. The Mouse In The Manger The story of Oscar the Mouse who becomes angry with his father and leaves home. In his adventures he feels a deep sense of loneliness. He enters into self-discovery within the stories of those he meets. Oscar returns home with a better understanding of himself and those around him. A story of friendship and service. The Nativity Story Rating PG, (violence). Includes film study guide. Her child would change the world. The Nativity Story chronicles the arduous journey of two people, Mary and Joseph, a miraculous pregnancy, and the history-defining birth of Jesus. This dramatic and compelling story comes to life in a major motion picture. Keisha Castle-Hughes as Mary and Oscarnominee Shoreh Aghdashloo and Oscar Isaac in supporting roles. 102 mins., 2006. The nativity story : a film study guide for Catholics by Rose Pacatte . The Promise of Advent Advent…the beginning of the Church Year. A time to prepare for the coming of Jesus. The Promise of Advent - the love of God who became a child in Bethlehem and who continues to come into our hearts year after year. God's love - the basis for the world's hope and joy. Advent a sacred time of customs and traditions, bringing us together, making memories and connecting us with our faith. (15 min. each. Year: 200?) DVD 1: Hope & Joy DVD 2: Making Memories The Star of Christmas Big Idea's Veggie Tales. Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber appear as Cavis and Millward -based loosely on Gilbert and Sullivan. Set in 1880s London, they've written a musical to open on Christmas Eve. Cavis thinks it will "teach London how to love". But children at St. Bart's are planning a nativity play for the same evening, and they plan to feature the Star of Christmas, a religious artifact unseen by the public for decades. The Post Gazette writes a story about the nativity play and the Star, and Cavis and Millward hatch a plan to make their musical better than the children's play. In the end, they learn the true meaning of Christmas. the greatest love of all when Jesus was born!. The Story of Jesus for children Rated G. This is the story of Jesus as seen through the eyes of children who might have lived during the time Jesus lived on earth. Footage adapted from the film: Jesus. NTSC version. Christ the Savior is born / Dinner at Benjamin's / Fight in the stable . The Toy That Saved Christmas Big Idea's Veggie Tales. Mr. Nezzer's TV commercials have convinced all of Dinkletown that "Christmas is when you get stuff!" With the children whining and begging for more toys, it's sure to be the worst Christmas ever ... until one brave little Buzz-Saw Louie doll decides to take matters into his own hands! The Toy That Saved Christmas teaches children that "Christmas isn't about getting, it's about giving." Computer animated series for junior and middle primary. The Wonder of Christmas : Christmas – a time of wonder and hope. DVD 1: These joyful films capture the heart and the spirit of Christmas – the story, The Christmas Story and the significance, how we celebrate and what it means for us today. Madeline Powell films. DVD 2: The Meaning of Christmas Three Christmas Classics : Christmas Is (22mins) An animated classic about Benji, a disappointed little boy who must play the Christmas Is second shepherd in the school play-again. Disappointment turns to joy when a daydream transports him and his lovable pooch, Waldo, back to the first Christmas. There the second shepherd shares with them the angels' message--that Jesus is born in Bethlehem! (2002) The City that forgot about Christmas The City that forgot about Christmas (22 mins) The story of a woodcarver who lived in a village that had forgotten about Christmas. When he taught the children of the town about the birth of Jesus, the uncaring village was filled with the joy of Christ. This animated favourite features the voices of Sebastian Cabot, Charles Nelson Reilly, and Louis Nye. (2002) The Stableboy's Christmas The Stableboy's Christmas (27 mins) This award-winning dramatic special finds 10-year-old Tammy travelling back in time to the first Christmas in Bethlehem and witnessing the little stableboy's act of unselfish love when he gives the Christ child his pet lamb. Tammy then realizes how sharing presents with others is a way of sharing God's love at Christmas. (2002) A Child Is Born: A Christmas Film A film that celebrates God's great love for us in the gift of Jesus, and the hope for a better world that comes with the birth of every child, in every corner of the world. It highlights the importance of every life that is lived as a gift for others. A John Powell film. Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem Websites for Christmas and Advent Most are suitable for teacher or student background. An overview of Advent as a season of preparation http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/adx/adprep.html Advent the period of four weeks before Christmas. It is a time of preparation, waiting and hope. This site explores some of the many Advent customs and offers prayers and weekly meditations in preparation for Christmas. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K – 6: Prayers and Customs of Advent and Christmas http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/adx/index.html Christmas and Advent can be a spiritual feast for those who live these seasons spiritually. And where better to live them spiritually than in our own homes and households? The purpose of this site is to help families and households celebrate Advent and Christmas in a Christian way. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K – 6: The History of Christmas http://www.holidays.net/christmas/story.htm A site offering a descriptive history of Christmas traditions, customs and Christian celebration of Christmas. Suitable for : 5 – 8: Christmas in Cyberspace http://www.njwebworks.net/christmas/ This site is designed to illuminate the true meaning of Christmas. To provide a strictly spiritual alternative to the commercialisation of one of our faiths most sacred times. Christmas In CyberSpace provides the Christian perspective that God demonstrated his love for us by entering our world under the most humble of circumstances. Suitable for : 5 – 6 Advent prayers for young children http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/child/adv.html This site contains a series of simple prayers for Advent prepared by the Passionist Fathers. Suitable for : K -- 4: The Story of Saint Nicholas http://www.cptryon.org/prayer/child/nick.html The re-telling of the life of St Nicholas. A very simple little piece, easily accessible. Suitable for student background. Suitable for : K – 4 Advent Calendar http://www.smmp.com/Advent/Advent.htm This Advent calendar will delight children. It is a cyberversion of the Advent Calendars that children love. It is constructed in such a way as not to allow any peeking ahead (encouraging a daily return!). Suitable for student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K – 6: Advent Calendar http://www.culham.ac.uk/advent2000/index.html This is another online Advent Calendar. While the heading 'Advent 2000' is confusing it tries to connect the Christian message to many seasonal activities. This site does not draw significantly on the scriptural passages for Advent. The music is often more Christmas than Advent. Suitable for student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K – 6: The Twelve Days of Christmas : A Catechism Song http://www.cin.org/twelvday.html The Twelve Days of Christmas was written in England as one of the catechism songs to help young Catholics learn the tenets of their faith - a memory aid, when to be caught with anything in *writing* indicating adherence to the Catholic faith could lead to punishment or death. Suitable for : 5 – 8: A Child is born http://www.ewtn.com/gallery/exhibit/child/index.htm This splendid collection of images about the birth of Jesus could be very effectively used, with a live connection and a data projector, as part of a class liturgy. Suitable for : K – 12: Prayers for Advent http://www.cyberfaith.com/weblinks/ia_advent.html Some suggestions as to how to go about the inclusion of online material in lessons on Advent by Dorothy Werner, retired Director of Religious Education, Archdiocese of Washington, DC. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K– 4: What Color Is the Season? http://www.cyberfaith.com/weblinks/ia_seasons.html In these online activities children are introduced to the seasons of the Church’s liturgical year. They learn about the significance of each season and the colors used during each season. Suitable for teacher background. Suitable for student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K - 2: Come, Lord Jesus, Come (An Advent Activity) http://www.cyberfaith.com/weblinks/ia_comelordjesus.html Activities included in this site are: 1. Learning what Advent is; 2. Studying a short history of Advent; 3. Seeing what liturgical colours are used during Advent and learn their significance; 4. Learning about the Advent wreath - the significance of the colors, the candles, the circle, and the evergreens; 5. Learning about Advent and pre-Christmas customs of different countries; 6. Making a classroom Advent calendar or use an online calendar to count down the days of Advent. The web-site links are high quality and could be very helpful for teachers and students. Suitable for teacher and student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : 3 – 6: St Nicholas http://www.stnicholascenter.org/Brix?pageID=23 This ecumenical site, subtitled - Discovering the truth about Santa Claus - is perhaps the best resource around for teachers and parents wanting to put the Santa myth in perspective. There is a lot to be learned here, including the origin of the balls placed on Christmas trees, which represent the gold given to provide dowries for impoverished maidens. Resources include a special children's section with stories and interactive media. Rediscovering the real figure of St Nicholas can be a helpful antidote to the commercialism of the season. Suitable for teacher and student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : K – 8 Interactive Advent Calendar http://www.beliefnet.com/index/index_10055.html This calendar is designed to focus a child's interest on the coming of Christ, culminating in the story of the Nativity on 25 December. Previews by the teacher before using would ensure that material is suitable for student use, as some is more appropriate for teacher background. The opening of the calendar at breakfast each day reveals a story or anecdote associated with the Christian celebration of Christmas. It includes information about telescopes and cosmology and an activity to make a Christmas star. The coding behind the calendar prevents users from peeking at stories from the days ahead. Suitable for teacher and student background. Contains teaching and learning activities. Suitable for : 5 – 12: Advent FAQs http://www.americancatholic.org/Features/Advent/faqs.asp Interesting FAQ's such as: What is Advent? Who established Advent? What is the Advent wreath? Why is the rose-colored candle lit on the third Sunday of Advent? etc. Suitable for teacher and student background. Suitable for : 5 – 8: Christmas FAQs http://www.americancatholic.org/features/christmas/faqs.asp Interesting FAQ's such as: Which other saints are celebrated during this time? Was St. Nicholas real? When are the 12 days of Christmas? What is “Little Christmas”? What are the names of the three kings? Suitable for teacher and student background. Suitable for : 5 – 8: Christmas: a multicultural festival http://www.cultureandrecreation.gov.au/articles/christmas/ At this site from the Australian Government's Culture and Recreation Portal, you can find out more about Christmas as a multi-faceted festival in a multicultural society, its origins, its traditions, and its future and how Australians celebrate Christmas. The site should not be relied upon for exploring the Christian understanding of Christmas in any depth. The art links are very good and could form the basis of meaningful classroom discussion and activities. Suitable for teacher background. Suitable for student background. Suitable for : 5 – 8: The History of Christmas - Watch and Listen http://www.history.com/topics/christmas The History of Christmas - Watch and Listen - This site contains some videos excerpts from the history channel about Christmas (so you will need broadband and have some very short ads). However, it includes a five minute video on the background to the tradition of Christmas, a clip on the Christmas truce during World War One and Frank Borman's Christmas message from the moon. The rest of the site is worth looking at as well. Suitable for teacher and student background. Suitable for : 7– 10: Blessings and best wishes Susan and Mary St. Demiana Coptic Orthodox Church, San Diego.