9. Kingdom Of God Flashcards
1
Q
What is a Pilgrimage?
A
A pilgrimage is a journey undertaken for a spiritual purpose, often to a sacred religious place. It is not just physical but also symbolic of a deeper spiritual journey towards God.
2
Q
Catholics believe that life itself is a pilgrimage towards heaven. This means…
A
- Life is a journey towards God, culminating in meeting Him at death.
- Actions in life should reflect progress on this journey towards God.
- Every action should help bring a person closer to God.
3
Q
What does Gaudium et Spes 57 state and what does it mean?
A
“Christians, on pilgrimage toward the heavenly city, should seek and think of these things which are above.”
This reinforces the idea that everyday actions should focus on reaching heaven.
4
Q
What are the stations of the cross?
A
The Stations of the Cross are a series of 14 images depicting events from Jesus’ journey to his crucifixion.
Catholics use these images to reflect on Christ’s suffering and pray at each station.
5
Q
How are the stations of the cross used in churches?
A
The Stations of the Cross are present in every Catholic church.
Many Catholics walk between the stations during Lent, reading passages and praying at each one.
This is a form of dramatized prayer, helping believers to connect emotionally with Christ’s suffering.
6
Q
What is the purpose of the Stations of the Cross?
A
Making the Stations of the Cross allows Catholics to:
- Accompany Jesus on his final journey.
- Share in His suffering as a sign of gratitude and devotion.
- Stay focused on their prayers by physically moving between stations.
7
Q
Are the stations of the cross a pilgrimage?
A
The Stations of the Cross are seen as a symbolic pilgrimage.
Catholics follow Jesus’ final journey through prayer and reflection, just as they would on an actual pilgrimage.
8
Q
Making the Stations of the Cross can be thought of as a type of ________ in prayer
A
pilgrimage
9
Q
What is dramatised prayer?
A
When Catholics pray before the Stations of the Cross, they engage in dramatised prayer.
This involves physical actions that enhance the prayer experience, making it more immersive.
10
Q
What trail do pilgrims in Jerusalem often follow?
A
Some Catholics travel to Jerusalem to follow the Via Dolorosa.
This is the street where Jesus carried His cross, allowing pilgrims to physically experience His final journey.
11
Q
Why is pilgrimage spiritually important to catholics?
A
Pilgrimage is significant in Catholicism because:
- It reflects spiritual progress towards God.
- It encourages believers to live holy and purposeful lives.
- It deepens faith through prayer, reflection, and sacrifice.
12
Q
How does pilgrimage influence a Catholic’s daily life?
A
Christians should view their daily actions as part of their pilgrimage towards heaven.
This means living virtuously, making moral choices, and striving for holiness.
13
Q
What are popular pilgrimage sites for Catholics?
A
- Jerusalem (where Jesus died)
- Rome (where the Pope lives)
- Lourdes (place with healing waters)
- Walsingham (England’s Catholic national shrine)
14
Q
Why do Catholics go on pilgrimages?
A
- To renew their commitment to the Church and God
- To meet other Catholics
- To heal physically or spiritually
- To feel spiritually inspired
15
Q
Why is Jerusalem an important pilgrimage site?
A
- It is the city where Jesus died
- Catholics visit Jesus’ tomb, the Via Dolorosa (the street where Jesus carried his cross), and other locations connected to his life
16
Q
Why do Catholics visit Jerusalem?
A
- To share in Jesus’ life and suffering
- To renew their faith and commitment to Jesus
17
Q
Why is Rome an important pilgrimage site?
A
- It is the center of the Catholic faith
- It is where St. Peter died and where the Pope lives
- Catholics visit the Vatican, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Cathedral of St. John Lateran
18
Q
Why do Catholics visit Rome?
A
- To show their commitment to the Catholic Church
- To express unity with the Pope and all Catholics
19
Q
What happened in Lourdes that makes it an important pilgrimage site?
A
- A young girl named Bernadette had visions of Mary
- Mary told her to dig in the ground, and a spring appeared
- The spring’s waters are believed to have healing powers
20
Q
Why do Catholics visit Lourdes?
A
- To be healed physically or spiritually by the waters
- To feel stronger in both body and mind
21
Q
Why is Walsingham an important pilgrimage site?
A
- It contains England’s Catholic national shrine
- In 1061, a noblewoman had a vision of Mary’s house in Nazareth and built a replica, now called the Holy House
- Catholics walk in procession between the Slipper Chapel and the Holy House and attend Mass
22
Q
Why do Catholics visit Walsingham?
A
- To go on a pilgrimage without traveling abroad
- To spend time in prayer with other Catholics
- To remind themselves of their place in the Church and the community of believers
23
Q
What religious sites do Catholics visit in Rome?
A
- The Vatican (home of the Pope)
- St. Peter’s Basilica (where St. Peter is buried)
- The Cathedral of St. John Lateran (the mother church - most important Catholic church)
24
Q
What religious practices take place at pilgrimage sites?
A
- Walking in processions (e.g., Walsingham)
- Visiting sacred locations (e.g., Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem)
- Bathing in healing waters (e.g., Lourdes)
- Attending Mass and prayer services
25
What is the Catholic attitude towards mission and evangelism?
- The main idea of mission is to show God’s love through doing good actions.
- Missionaries believe acts of love and forgiveness can positively influence others to do good.
- Jesus’ teachings emphasize attitude over blind rule-following.
- Missionary work often prioritizes love, kindness, and forgiveness over strict adherence to rules.
- It requires total commitment to God, even in the face of hardship.
26
How does Les Misérables illustrate Christian mission and forgiveness?
- Valjean, a thief, steals silver from the Bishop of Digne.
- The bishop forgives him, claiming it was a gift and encourages him to do good.
- This act of love persuades Valjean to change his ways.
- Valjean starts a factory to help others, showing Christian values in action.
27
What does Les Misérables teach about law vs. forgiveness?
- Javert, a former jailer, relentlessly pursues Valjean, refusing to forgive his past crimes.
- Valjean, however, saves Javert’s life.
- This act of kindness conflicts with Javert’s strict adherence to the law, leading to an internal struggle.
- One of the final songs in the film says "To love another person is to see the face of God"—a key theme in the film.
28
How does the film 'The Mission' demonstrate total commitment to God?
- European priests do missionary work among native South Americans.
- When slave traders attack, the priests choose to defend the natives.
- They stay despite threats to their own lives and the Church’s orders to abandon them.
- Demonstrates sacrifice and devotion to faith.
29
What is the role of love and kindness in missionary work?
- Love and kindness can be more important than simply following rules.
- Missionaries hope their actions will inspire others to do good.
- Les Misérables and The Mission show how forgiveness and sacrifice transform lives
30
Why is the right attitude important in mission work?
- Jesus emphasized attitude over blindly following God’s law (beatitudes)
- Missionaries focus on compassion, not just rules.
Examples:
The bishop in Les Misérables shows kindness rather than punishing Valjean.
Valjean chooses mercy over revenge with Javert.
31
How do Les Misérables and The Mission show the challenges of evangelism?
- Missionaries and evangelists may face hardships or ridicule.
- In The Mission, priests risk death for their beliefs.
- Valjean in Les Misérables faces constant pursuit despite trying to do good.
32
Why is total commitment essential in missionary work?
- Evangelists must remain dedicated despite obstacles.
- Some acts of goodness require defying Church rules (e.g., priests in The Mission staying to protect natives).
- Mission work is about faith, sacrifice, and perseverance.
33
How do Christian films encourage evangelism and faith?
The Catholic Church encourages films that "show moral and religious values" (Inter Mirifica 14).
These films:
- Show how Christian values transform lives.
- Inspire Christians to live out their faith.
- Encourage spreading the Gospel through actions.
34
What impact can Christian films have on believers?
- They motivate Christians to act with love and kindness.
- They reinforce the importance of forgiveness and sacrifice.
- They inspire viewers to apply Christian values in daily life.
35
What is the Kingdom of God?
- The Kingdom of God is not a place but the idea of God's authority and rule.
- It is seen among those who follow Jesus.
- It began when Jesus was born and continues to grow today.
- It will be completed at the end of time when all people live as God intends.
36
How was the Kingdom of God created?
- The Kingdom of God was established through Jesus' birth when God's power came to earth
- His resurrection and the coming of the Holy Spirit strengthened it.
- It grows through the actions of Christians who spread it on earth.
- It will be fully completed at the end of time in heaven.
37
What does the Lord’s Prayer teach about the Kingdom of God?
The Lord’s Prayer, taught by Jesus, gives insights into what is required for the Kingdom to grow.
It highlights key aspects such as God's will, daily needs, forgiveness, and avoiding sin.
38
What does ‘Our Father, who art in heaven’ mean?
Jesus wants all people to call God ‘Father.’
It emphasizes having a trusting relationship with God.
39
What does ‘Hallowed be thy name’ mean?
This is a prayer for God’s name to be accepted as holy.
When people respect God's holiness, they recognize His importance and accept their call to be members of His Kingdom.
40
What does ‘Thy kingdom come’ mean?
This is a prayer for God's Kingdom to come on earth.
It asks for people to accept God's rule in their hearts.
41
What does ‘Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven’ mean?
Following God’s will is key to establishing the Kingdom.
When everyone follows God's will, His Kingdom will be fully established.
42
What does ‘Give us this day our daily bread’ mean?
This asks God to provide basic needs for survival.
It allows people to focus more on God, helping the Kingdom to grow.
43
Why do we ask for forgiveness in the Lord’s Prayer?
The prayer ‘Forgive us our trespasses’ emphasizes the importance of forgiveness.
Accepting and giving forgiveness helps people grow closer to God.
To spread the Kingdom, people must forgive others and accept God's forgiveness.
44
What does ‘Deliver us from evil’ mean?
This is a prayer to resist temptation and sin.
God's grace helps people overcome sin.
The Kingdom of God grows when more people choose to accept God instead of rejecting Him.
45
How is the Kingdom of God a gradual process?
- It began when Jesus was born.
- It was strengthened through Jesus’ resurrection and the Holy Spirit.
- It grows through Christians spreading God's teachings.
- It will be completed at the end of time with eternal happiness in heaven.
46
What is needed for the Kingdom of God to grow?
- People must follow God's will.
- Christians must spread His teachings.
- People need to pray, seek forgiveness, and avoid sin.
- The Kingdom will fully come when all live as God intends.
47
What are the three signs of the Kingdom of God?
The three signs of the Kingdom of God are justice, peace, and reconciliation.
The Kingdom of God is perfect and requires these three things.
48
How can christians help to grow the kingdom of God on earth?
Christians can help grow the Kingdom of God on Earth by contributing to the values of justice, peace and reconciliation in their own lives and in the lives of others.
49
How do Christians contribute to justice?
- They should live in a way that respects the rights of others.
- They must take action to change systems that allow injustice to continue.
- Upholding justice helps to spread the Kingdom of God on Earth.
50
What does justice ensure for all people?
- Justice ensures that all people have access to basic human rights.
- It recognises that all people are created and loved equally by God.
- It respects the dignity of every person.
- It treats all people fairly, regardless of factors like sex, race, or religion.
51
What does the Catechism of the Catholic Church say about justice?
The Catechism teaches that the "goods created by God for everyone should in fact reach everyone" (Catechism 2459).
This means justice requires the fair distribution of resources and opportunities.
52
What is peace, according to Christian teachings?
- Peace is a state of total trust and unity between all people.
- It requires the removal of tensions caused by suspicion, resentment, and mistreatment.
- It is believed by Catholics to come from a person’s heart.
53
How is peace connected to justice?
Peace flows from justice—there can be no peace where there is injustice.
A just society ensures people’s rights are protected, which leads to peace.
54
What does peace require from people? (Include quote from Pacem in Terris)
Peace requires people to accept the rights of every individual.
It is "founded on truth, built on justice, and nurtured by charity" (Pacem in Terris 167).
55
How can Christians support peace?
- Christians should support efforts to establish peace and harmony in the world.
- This includes working with organisations that promote justice and unity.
- By doing this, they help bring about the peace of God’s Kingdom on Earth.
56
What is reconciliation?
Reconciliation breaks down barriers that exist between people.
It helps peace and justice to spread, contributing to the growth of the Kingdom of God.
57
What does reconciliation achieve?
- It restores damaged relationships between people.
- It brings back together those who have been separated due to conflict.
- It relies on acceptance and empathy.
58
What does reconciliation require from people?
People must learn from the past and work together to create a better future.
It is an active process that requires effort and willingness to forgive.
59
Why are justice, peace, and reconciliation important for the Kingdom of God?
- They are essential signs of the Kingdom of God.
- Justice ensures fairness and equality, peace brings unity, and reconciliation heals divisions.
- Christians who live by these values help to create a world that reflects God’s Kingdom on Earth.
60
What is the hierarchy of the Catholic Church?
A ranking system that organizes people’s authority and responsibilities in the Church.
It ensures unity within the Church.
61
Who is at the top of the Catholic hierarchy and what power do they have?
- The Pope is the head of the Church.
- He leads the Church and has ultimate authority.
- Can call a Council to discuss Church-wide issues with bishops.
62
What is the role of Cardinals in the Catholic Church?
- Appointed by the Pope.
- Their main responsibility is electing the next Pope.
63
What do Bishops do in the Catholic Church?
- Successors to the apostles.
- Responsible for overseeing a diocese (a large group of churches).
64
What is the role of Priests in the Church?
- Responsible for a parish (a small area of the Church).
- Administer sacraments (such as Eucharist and Baptism).
- Preach the word of God.
65
What do Deacons do in the Church?
- Preach the word of God.
- Assist priests in their duties.
66
Who are Lay People in the Catholic Church?
- Non-ordained members of the Church.
- Share in the priestly office of Christ through their baptism.
67
What was the Second Vatican Council?
A series of meetings held by the Pope and bishops from 1962 to 1965.
Produced documents reflecting a modern approach to the Church.
68
What is ‘Dei Verbum’ about?
- Discusses the importance and interpretation of the Bible.
- States that the Bible is the Word of God but should not always be read literally.
69
What does ‘Lumen Gentium’ say about the Church?
- Discusses the nature and structure of the Church.
- Stresses that all members have an important role, not just the Pope.
- Describes the Church as a pilgrim Church, moving forward in modern society.
70
What changes did ‘Sacrosanctum Concilium’ introduce?
- Focuses on the liturgy and Church services.
- Emphasises that people should fully participate in worship.
- Allowed Catholics to hear the Mass in their own language instead of Latin.
71
What does ‘Gaudium et Spes’ teach about the modern world?
- Addresses issues related to modern society.
- States that the Church should not be separate from society.
- Guides people on how to live in the modern world while staying true to their faith.
72
What were the 4 major documents produced by the Second Vatican Council?
- Dei Verbum (The Word of God)
- Lumen Gentium (On the Church)
- Sacrosanctum Concilium (On the Sacred Liturgy)
- Gaudium et Spes (The Church in the Modern World)
73
What is the Magnificat?
The Magnificat is a prayer said by Mary after she became pregnant with Jesus and visited her cousin Elizabeth.
It is a significant prayer in Christianity, showing Mary's devotion to God.
74
Why is Mary considered the perfect disciple?
Catholics believe Mary is the perfect follower of Jesus.
Her qualities of humility, trust, and acceptance of God's will are evident in the Magnificat.
75
Why is the Magnificat seen as a controversial Kingdom prayer?
Some believe it encourages the poor and weak to rise up against their governments.
It can be interpreted as a call to spread the Kingdom of God on earth by promoting justice and equality.
76
How does Mary show humility in the Magnificat?
She acknowledges that she is special only because of what God has done for her.
Example: "for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant."
77
How does Mary praise God's greatness in the Magnificat?
- She recognizes that God has done great things for her and humanity.
- Her whole prayer praises God's love and power.
- Example: "My soul magnifies the Lord ... for the Mighty One has done great things for me."
78
How does Mary show her acceptance of God's will?
- She willingly accepted the role of being Jesus’ mother.
- Her praise of God confirms her readiness to follow His will.
79
How does Mary show her trust in God?
- She was a pregnant, unmarried teenager who could have been punished for adultery.
- Despite this, she trusted God to protect her as she fulfilled His plan.
- The prayer shows her belief that God helps the weak and poor.
80
What does Luke 1:52 say about power and the lowly?
"He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly."
This suggests a reversal of power, where God supports the weak.
81
What does Luke 1:53 say about wealth and hunger?
"He has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty."
This suggests that God provides for the poor while challenging the rich.
82
Why do some people think the Magnificat is revolutionary?
- It supports those who rebel against their governments.
- Encourages the poor to rise up against oppression.
- Seen as a call for justice, equality, and recognizing the value of all people.
83
How do others interpret the Magnificat?
Some believe it is not political but simply shows that God supports the weak and helpless.
Suggests that those who trust in God will be saved.
84
What are the key themes of the Magnificat?
- Humility
- Trust in God
- God's greatness
- Justice and equality
- The reversal of power (lifting the lowly, bringing down the powerful)
85
What are the four marks of the Church?
- The four marks of the Church are one, holy, catholic, and apostolic.
- These are essential characteristics that define the Catholic Church.
- They distinguish the Church from all other institutions.
86
What does it mean that the Church is "one"?
- The Church is one united body, made up of many individual churches.
- Just as a human body has different limbs, all churches form part of one Church.
- Jesus prayed at the Last Supper for his followers to "be one" (John 17:21, NRSV).
- The Church works to maintain this unity today.
87
How is the Church "holy"?
- The presence of God makes the Church holy.
- The Holy Spirit guides all Christians and the Church as a whole.
- Every member of the Church is made holy through baptism.
88
What does "catholic" mean in the four marks of the Church?
The word "catholic" means "related to the whole" or "worldwide".
The Church’s beliefs are universal, held by Catholics all over the world.
89
Why is the Church described as "apostolic"?
The Church's teachings are built on the teachings of the 12 apostles.
The successors to the apostles (the Pope and bishops) guide the Church today.
90
What is apostolic succession?
Apostolic succession is the idea that the Pope and bishops are successors to the 12 apostles.
This gives them the authority to shape and confirm the Church’s teachings (Magisterium).
91
What is the significance of apostolic succession?
Apostolic succession means that the power of the apostles has been passed down through generations of bishops.
The Pope also inherits the authority of Peter, who led the apostles and the early Church.
92
How does the Pope's authority relate to Peter?
- Catholics believe that the Pope inherits the authority of Peter.
- Peter was the leader of the apostles and the early Church.
- This authority has been passed down to the current Pope.
93
What is the Magisterium?
- The Magisterium is the combined authority of the bishops and the Pope.
- It ensures that the Church’s teachings remain true to the apostolic tradition.
- The Church is believed to be guided by the Holy Spirit through the Magisterium.
94
What happens when the Pope makes a formal declaration?
When the Pope makes a formal declaration of an official doctrine, he speaks as the Head of the Church.
In these cases, Catholics believe he speaks infallibly—he cannot be wrong.
95
How does the Holy Spirit guide the Church?
Catholics believe the Holy Spirit guides both the Church as a whole and individual Christians.
The Holy Spirit helps the Church maintain its holiness and unity.
96
Why is the Church considered conciliar?
- The Church is conciliar because it makes important decisions through councils (meetings of the Pope and bishops).
- Councils help discuss difficult issues, understand the Catholic community’s feelings, and update Church teachings.
- They influence the Church’s direction and express the voice of the whole Church.
97
How does the Church combine conciliar and pontifical authority?
- While councils allow discussion among Church leaders, the Pope has the final authority.
- The Pope listens to the bishops but ultimately makes the final decisions.
- Councils help the Church respond to modern issues, while the Pope ensures unity and consistency in teachings.
98
What does the Church teach about God’s love for humanity?
The Church believes that God loves all people equally.
It acknowledges that people are essential to its existence – without humans, there would be no Church.
99
Why is the Church considered pontifical?
- The Church is pontifical because the Pope has the highest authority.
- The Pope's authority has been passed down through generations from Peter, chosen by Jesus to lead the apostles.
- The Pope is the representative of Christ on Earth.
- His teachings must be taken seriously and can be declared infallible.
- Councils’ decisions have no authority until the Pope approves them.
100
How does the Church emphasise supporting the weakest members of society?
The Church teaches that the weakest and poorest members should be supported.
It promotes an equal society where all can live fairly.
101
What does a quote from Gaudium et Spes 21 state about helping the weakest members of society?
A quote from Gaudium et Spes 21 states:
"The Church sincerely professes that all men… ought to work for the rightful betterment of this world in which all alike live."
102
What is the Church’s stance on economic exploitation?
The Church is against economic exploitation and greed, as these lead to inequality and suffering.
It teaches that everyone should work toward a fair economic system.
103
What does aquote from Evangelii Gaudium 53 state about economic exploitation?
A quote from Evangelii Gaudium 53 states:
"Today we… have to say 'thou shalt not' to an economy of exclusion and inequality."
104
How do Catholic social teachings promote economic fairness?
- Catholic social teachings emphasise fairness and helping those in need.
- They reject systems that exploit or exclude people.
- The Church encourages individuals and societies to take action against economic inequality.
105
How does the Church encourage Catholics to help others?
- Catholics are taught to help the weakest and poorest members of society.
- This includes charitable actions, social justice efforts, and advocating for fairness.
- Relief of suffering is a moral responsibility for Catholics.
106
What is the role of councils in shaping Church teachings?
- Councils help update Church teachings by discussing and resolving important matters.
- They allow bishops and the Pope to work together in understanding the Church’s needs.
- Councils ensure Church teachings stay relevant while maintaining core principles.
107
Why is the Pope’s authority central to Catholicism?
- The Pope is considered the leader of the Church and holds the highest authority.
- His authority comes from an unbroken line of succession from Peter.
- He has the power to declare teachings infallible, meaning they are free from error.
108
How do conciliar and pontifical aspects maintain Church unity?
- Conciliar discussions allow the Church to hear many perspectives.
- Pontifical authority ensures consistency and unity in teachings.
- The balance prevents division while allowing adaptation to new issues.
109
How do Catholic social teachings connect to conciliar and pontifical authority?
- Councils help address social issues by discussing solutions based on Catholic teachings.
- The Pope ensures that social teachings align with Church doctrine.
- Together, they promote justice, equality, and care for the poor.
110
Why is charity important for Catholics?
- As members of the Body of Christ, Catholics follow Jesus’ command to "love your neighbour as yourself" (Mark 12:31).
- Christians express this love by helping those in need through local, national, and global charities.
- Examples of Catholic charities include SVP (working locally) and CAFOD (working nationally and globally).
111
What is the role of SVP (St Vincent de Paul Society)?
- SVP is an international Catholic charity that works at a local level.
- It has members worldwide who work in small groups to support people in need within their communities.
- Their main focus is friendship and practical assistance.
112
How does SVP support individuals in their local communities?
- SVP members visit people in need at home, in hospitals, care homes, and prisons.
- They provide friendship, support, and advice to vulnerable individuals.
- Their work helps reduce loneliness and isolation.
113
How does SVP help with practical needs?
- SVP members assist individuals with everyday tasks.
- For example, they may help with shopping, household chores, and other essential tasks.
- This support enables people to maintain a sense of independence.
114
What larger projects does SVP run in local communities?
In addition to individual assistance, SVP organises bigger projects to support the local community.
Examples include:
- Running summer camps for children.
- Providing food for the homeless.
These projects focus on improving community well-being.
115
What is CAFOD and what does it do?
- CAFOD is the official charity for the Catholic Church in England and Wales.
- It helps people in poverty become more self-reliant.
- CAFOD works at national and global levels, providing aid and campaigning for justice.
116
How does CAFOD provide emergency aid?
- CAFOD provides relief in disaster-affected areas.
- This includes places where wars, natural disasters, or poverty have ruined lives.
- They offer both short-term aid (e.g., food, shelter) and long-term solutions (e.g., farming equipment to help communities grow food).
117
How does CAFOD challenge harmful laws and policies?
- CAFOD campaigns against national and international policies that hurt people in poverty.
- They oppose policies that contribute to issues such as climate change and inequality.
- Their advocacy helps create fairer laws and a more just society.
118
How does CAFOD support people facing injustice?
- CAFOD provides legal assistance to those being threatened by corporations or governments.
- For example, they help farmers who are at risk of losing their land to large companies.
- This ensures that vulnerable people can protect their rights.
119
What is the difference between SVP and CAFOD?
- SVP works locally, offering friendship and practical support to individuals.
- CAFOD operates nationally and globally, providing aid and challenging policies that harm the poor.
- Both organisations follow Catholic teachings on charity and justice.
120
How do SVP and CAFOD reflect Jesus' teachings?
- Jesus taught to love and help others, especially the poor and vulnerable.
- SVP members provide direct, personal support, following Jesus’ example of caring for individuals.
- CAFOD tackles global injustices, addressing the root causes of poverty as Jesus encouraged.
121
What are Kingdom values?
The values (or standards for living) that God wants people to have as members of His Kingdom.
Jesus set an example of these values through His teachings, including the Beatitudes.
122
What is a vocation in Christianity?
A vocation is a calling from God to take on a specific role in life. Christians believe everyone has a vocation, where they use their talents for a purpose.
Living by Kingdom values is an essential part of any vocation.
123
What are some examples of Kingdom values?
- gentleness
- humility
- obedience to God
- mercy
- love
- a desire for peace
- a wish to serve God
124
What is the role of a priest in Christianity?
A priest is an ordained minister of the Catholic Church who celebrates Mass, preaches, and forgives sins.
Priests live by Kingdom values, dedicating themselves to serving others, following Church teachings, and obeying their bishop.
125
How do priests live out Kingdom values?
- Taking a promise of celibacy, dedicating their whole selves to God.
- Serving others like Jesus, as they do not have a family and can focus on helping people.
- Making a promise of obedience to their bishop, ensuring they follow the voice of God.
126
How is family life connected to Kingdom values?
- Love is a key Kingdom value in family life, as it unites family members.
- Catholic parents show Kingdom values in their relationships and teach their children these values.
- By raising their children with Christian teachings, families help to spread the Kingdom of God on earth.
127
Who are monks and nuns, and what do they do?
Monks and nuns dedicate themselves entirely to God by living in religious communities focused on prayer and service.
Their lives reflect Kingdom values through simplicity, peace, and devotion to helping others.
128
What vows do monks and nuns take?
1. Vow of poverty – giving up material wealth.
2. Vow of chastity – remaining unmarried to be fully devoted to God.
3. Vow of obedience – following their religious superiors as a sign of commitment to God’s will.
129
How do religious brothers and sisters (monks and nuns) live out their vocations?
- They dedicate themselves to a life of prayer and service.
- They live simple lives, avoiding material wealth.
- Their lives create a sense of peace that others can experience.
- They engage in active service, helping people in need.
130
How do monks, nuns, and religious brothers and sisters express love through their work?
- They show love by helping others in roles such as teachers, nurses, or care workers.
- Their care and commitment demonstrate the love of God.
- They create communities where peace, prayer, and service are central.
131
Why is prayer important in religious life?
- Religious individuals start and end their day with prayer, making it a core part of their lives.
- Prayer strengthens their connection with God and helps them live by Kingdom values.
- It guides their actions in serving others with compassion and humility.
132
How do Christian vocations help build God’s Kingdom on Earth?
- Priests, families, and religious individuals all spread Kingdom values in different ways.
- Priests serve the Church and the people.
- Families raise children with Christian teachings.
- Monks, nuns, and religious brothers and sisters dedicate their lives to prayer, peace, and helping others.
133
Who is an example of a Catholic living by Kingdom values?
Pope Francis is a well-known Catholic who lives by the Kingdom values of justice, peace, and reconciliation.
He demonstrates these values by working to end poverty and inequality, promoting peace, and helping restore relationships between conflicting groups or nations.
134
What role did Pope Francis play in improving USA-Cuba relations?
During 2014-15, he played a major role in restoring relations between Cuba and the USA.
Tensions between these countries had existed since the 1950s.
135
How does Pope Francis bring together conflicting leaders?
He arranges meetings between leaders of countries that have been at war.
In 2014, he met and prayed with the Palestinian and Israeli presidents to encourage peace.
136
How does Pope Francis use public addresses to promote peace?
He often prays for areas of conflict and tension in his speeches.
His prayers aim to encourage peace across the world.
137
What does Pope Francis do on Maundy Thursday to show reconciliation?
Every Maundy Thursday, he goes to a local prison and washes the feet of 12 prisoners, including Muslims.
This symbolizes his belief that even those who have committed crimes should still be accepted by society.
138
How does Pope Francis promote reconciliation in conflict zones?
He has visited areas of tension in the world to help restore harmony and encourage reconciliation.
139
How has Pope Francis worked to reconcile Muslims, Jews, and Christians?
As Archbishop, he arranged services where Muslim and Jewish leaders could pray together with him in his cathedral.
This was a significant step in improving interfaith relations.
140
How does Pope Francis' personal lifestyle reflect his commitment to justice?
He chooses to live in a small, modest flat instead of the large official apartments in the Vatican.
By living simply, he aims to inspire others to do the same, helping reduce inequality.
141
Why does Pope Francis speak out against economic policies?
He criticises policies that lead to inequality and exploitation.
He believes that these policies contribute to wider social injustice.
142
How does Pope Francis help the poor through his religious leadership?
As Archbishop of Buenos Aires, he increased the number of priests working among the poor to ensure they had support and guidance.
143
Why does Pope Francis speak against abuse?
He believes that all forms of abuse contribute to injustice and must be addressed to promote fairness and equality in society.
