Merry Christmas from All of Us at Ave Maria Press

“Glory to God in the highest      and on earth peace to those on whom is              favor rests.” (Luke 2:14)  

Catholic New Years’ Resolutions

As a welcome back to class exercise after Christmas vacation, ask the students to create a list of ten Catholic New Years’ Resolutions.

Have a Wonderful Christmas!

Two Great Teachers of the Faith: St. Nicholas of Myra (December 6) and St. Ambrose (December 7)

As Christmas approaches, remember to tell your students not only that Santa Claus is “real,” but that the saintly figure behind the legend is even more of an inspiration than the jolly perennial visitor of mythical renown! On…

Sharing Christmas Memories

You may wish to adapt this short activity to fill-in some extra minutes of class during the final weeks before the Christmas break.

Recognizing Jesus

The Christmas season continues, even as you return to school. Have your students meditate on the humanity of Jesus and his mission. Share these words of Pope Benedict XVI. Have them complete the assignment that follows.

Christmas Week Meditation and Assignments

This Christmas meditation encourages quiet contemplation of the manger scene and the ways God reaches out to us during the Christmas season. 

Prayer Experience: “The Light of the World”

For this prayer experience you will need tapers, slips of paper, and something to write with. Gather the students in an open space. Have them sit in a circle. Give each person an unlit taper candle. Follow these directions.

“The Bethlehem Explosion”

The following lesson centers around the poem "The Bethlhem Explosion" by acclaimed author Madeline L'Engle. The accompanying background material and lesson is taken from The Catholic Spirit: An Anthology for Discovering Faith…

Advent/Christmas Icebreaker Idea

This Christmas-themed icebreaker encourages students to share remembrances of fun holiday celebrations.