Service Module

OBJECTIVE

  • The objective for this module is to paint the picture of the life of service as the stewardship by God to man by which man partakes in the plan of salvation for our sanctification as fellow workers.
  • As students study the four lessons, they will also take an in-depth look at how the church grew through witnesses even while facing opposition.
  • Week 5 is the capstone week to review and serve together.

MILESTONES

Scripture: The Book of Acts describes the activities of the early Church immediately after the Feast of Pentecost. It starts with a recap of the Crucifiction and Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ and the establishment of the 12 Disciples, with Judas being replaced by St. Matthias. The Book of Acts describes the activities of the early church. It is interesting to note that the Book of Acts is actually called, "The Acts of our Fathers the Apostles."

Spiritual: The Book of the Acts of our Fathers the Apostles also refers to the work of the God, the Holy Spirit. It is important for us to understand the Person of the Holy Spirit in our life. The same Holy Spirit gives different gifts to different people; and in turn the Holy Spirit bears fruits through the people.

Social: Expressing our faith is not something from which to be shy or embarrassed, but it is also something not to be flaunted. Taking time to quietly and discreetly pray at school is perfectly fine. If someone asks what we are doing, we can confidently, and with a smile, say that we are praying. One will be surprised as to how often others respect our beliefs.

Rituals: The Coptic Church's Rituals state that within the Holy Bible, The Book of the Acts of our Fathers the Apostles does not end with the word "Amen." The church fathers have said that the reason behind the omission of the word "Amen" is because the Book of the Acts is still being written by the current, present day church.

TOPICS BY WEEK

  • Please read through all of the lessons in this module in preparation for this lesson.
    • Week 1: Church Beginnings
    • Week 2: Church Growth
    • Week 3: Witnessing
    • Week 4: Opposition
    • Capstone Activity
  • As a class, you can choose to do a few of the service actions or all of them
  • As you encourage students to do the actions, it's important to stress that these are simple, yet practical ways students can evangelize in their homes and schools.

CHURCH CONNECTION

  • Please make every effort to incorporate our Orthodox traditions, liturgical practices, saints, and sacraments in every lesson.

PARENTS CORNER

  • Every lesson contains suggested material for you to send out to parents/guardians on a weekly basis
  • The ultimate goal is to give parents tools and resources necessary to educate their children every day, creating an Orthodox Christian home.