The goal of our curriculum is twofold, symbolized by the words Objective and Subjective.  We should be teaching the objective elements of our faith and testing the students.  They should know that there are seven sacraments, that the Church is divided geographically into dioceses that are pastored by bishop, that we believe the Eucharist is really the body and blood of Christ, etc.  At the same time, we should be helping the students to deepen their relationship with God, that is, become more committed Christians.

  Seventh Grade Religion Curriculum

A. Sacraments- 

           1. Sacramentality - The learner will

• interpret the definition of  sacramentality

• apply the concept of  sacramentaliy 

2. The Seven Sacraments- The learner will

• understand definition of a sacrament

• categorize the sacraments according to sacraments of initiation, healing, and vocation

• relate the divine calls of sacraments

• discuss the  nature of sacramental action

• understand sacramental character

• recognize the ministers of each  sacrament

• understand the effects, responsibilities, and the  form and matter of each sacrament

B. Scripture 

     1. Study- The learner will

• differentiate the concepts of Scripture and Tradition

• have a deeper understanding of Jesus as The Word Made Flesh

• analyze the Gospels and apply teachings to everyday living

• be exposed to various forms specific to the New Testament

     2. Devotion- The learner will

• read Scripture for the purpose of spiritual growth

• be able to meditate on Scripture

• be exposed to prayer services that involve the use of Scripture

C. Culture- The learner will

• recognize and participate in God's seasons of grace as seen in the liturgical year

• be exposed to the saints of the day and will analyze the lives of specific saints on a deeper level

• be exposed to sacred art as a means of inspiration as well as study

• better understand the nature of sacred architecture

• better relate to the Marian doctrines of the Church 

• develop a deeper understanding of the organization of the Church   

D. Prayers and Devotions

   1. Study- The learner will

• study the nature, the forms, and expressions of prayer

• be able to identify the parts of the Mass, sacred vessels, vestments

   2. Liturgical- The learner will

•  better understand liturgical readings in the context of the Mass

•  more deeply enter into preparation and participation of the Mass

  3.  Communal- The learner will

• continue to be able recite all prayers common to the Catholic Tradition

• demonstrate ability to lead rosary

• participate in and generate prayers involving prayer services

• participate in Benediction, Stations of the Cross, parish prayer services

• be able to compose spontaneous prayers and particularly petitions

 4.  Private- The learner will

• be able to meditate on Scripture for private reflection

• be encouraged to pray daily, alone and with others

• be encouraged to pray for specific private intentions as well as for God's guidance in life

E.  Christian Service- The learner will

• be involved with projects that involve home, school, and parish life

• be involved with community and civic service

F.  Doctrine

  1. Eucharist- The learner will 

• have a deeper understanding of centrality of Eucharist to the Church

• demonstrate knowledge of the True Presence of Christ in the Eucharist

  2. Nature of God- The learner will 

• have a deeper understanding of the role of God in salvation, specifically in the person of Jesus Christ

• be able to determine the both human and divine nature of Jesus Christ

G. Vocation- The learner will

• understand that the call to holiness is universal

• understand that the Christian's primary vocation is to love

• contrast the various states of life and demonstrate a deeper understanding of each 

• study and examine lives of various saints as examples of specific vocations

• be more specific and focused on pursuing and exploring the nature of each vocation for the purpose of discerning the direction God may be leading that individual

H.  Apologetics

- The learner will 

• critique tenants of other faiths in light of  the fullness of truth as revealed to the Catholic Church

• be able to uphold doctrines such as the True Presence, the Communion of Saints, and role of Mary in our salvation