Optional Pages of Four Saints Featured in the Lessons

Optional Pages of Four Saints Featured in the Lessons: Download and Print PDF

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• Theotokos
• St. Nicholas
• St. Thekla
• Abraham

Lesson Plans Grades K-1

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

Lesson 1: “We Trust God” 

OBJECTIVES: 

The students will be 1) able to state when asked, that God made everything and everything belongs to Him, 2) that we recognize our dependence on God by saying “Lord, have mercy,” at church, and when we bow and prostrate ourselves.

TIME:   10 Minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Some sticks and a piece of rope (used for Lessons 1 and 2)

An icon of Christ in the icon corner

Shoebox (Offering Box) with poster artwork to cover lid

Doorknob reminder, Theotokos (1/child labeled with name ahead of time)

 

FOR THE CATECHIST:

Every week the children will be asked to bring in an offering for your class box. Check to see if it is in each lesson plan, and if it isn’t, determine when you will collect the offering and write it in. Likewise, at the conclusion of each lesson, the doorknob hanger reminders are to be given out. Check to see if that is in each lesson plan, and if it isn’t, write it in.

NOTE: In these lessons words that appear in italics provide the intent of the writer, as if teaching this lesson. Answers appear in parentheses. Do not read aloud to the children from this lesson plan!

This is the first of four lessons on tithing.  This lesson should be presented after your normal lesson for the day.  For that reason, no opening prayer is given in this guide and the materials listed here are only for this segment of your lesson.

Your students probably already are aware, based on previous instruction, that God, as Creator, made everything and that everything belongs to Him.  You will want to let them hear this once more, as well as hearing that God is love.  The main thrust of the lesson will be our dependence on our Creator Who gives us everything we need.  We show our dependence in the petitions we say and in our physical actions with bowing, making the Sign of the Cross and prostrations in prayer.

INTRODUCTION:

For a few minutes now, we are going to have a special lesson. We will have three other special lessons in the next three weeks. These special lessons are to help us remember that God has given us everything, and it is only right that we should give back to God in thanksgiving. I have a special box here. I would like you to bring something to give to God each week. We will keep the offering box in the icon corner. We will learn how to bring money to give to God, so that our church can be strong, and so that we can help those in need. If you get an allowance, you need to think about bringing some of the money to church. We will place it in our offering box, and then bring the box to church as our class’ offering.

CONTENT:

Let’s pretend that you found some tall sticks in your backyard and some rope. You took both and made a fort. Who does the fort belong to? (“Me.”) Why? (“Because I made it.”) Let’s think about apples, and pine trees and horses and giraffes. Who made them? (God.) Then who do they belong to? (God.) God created everything in the world. And everything belongs to God.

I’m going to say that again, and I want you to say it with me. When we say the first part, “God created everything.” I’m going to open my arms wide to reach out to all creation. When I say the second part, I’m going to bring my hands together as if receiving a blessing, because everything that God gives us is a blessing. Try it with me, “God created everything . .  .” “Everything belongs to God.”

If I ask you “Who created everything?” what will you answer? “God created everything!”

We need what God gives us. We need food to eat, and a home, and clothes. In the Divine Liturgy, we ask God for what we need. Then we say, “Lord, have mercy.” Father says, “for an abundance of the fruits of the earth, let us pray,” and we say, “Lord, have mercy.” We tell God that we need Him to be kind to us. We trust that He will provide for us. The mother of Jesus trusted God. She is our model for trust.

[Move to icon corner if it is not where you are teaching, or possibly go before the icon of Christ in the church.] We know that we can not create anything. God is the Creator. It is good for us to remember that everything we have comes from God, and that He is much greater than we are. We worship God because everything we have comes from Him. There are two ways that we show special worship of God. [Demonstrate as you explain.] We bow before God.. . .  Everyone try that. And we make a prostration.. . . When we have our heads touching the floor, it makes us feel that we are little, and God is big. It tells God that we know something. We know that we are nothing without Him. Let’s practice a prostration. When we have our heads to the floor, let’s say, “God created everything.” Repeat that before we begin . . . Now let’s make our prostration.

[Use one of the sticks from the introduction, as a talking stick. Have children make a circle. The stick is passed from person to person. Each one must say something they depend on God for. You will probably need to give an example. ] Ask the class, “Who made everything?” and “Who does everything belong to?”

CLOSING:

Practice the prostration with the children, saying as you do so, “God created everything.” A few minutes ago, we talked about trusting God to provide for us, I told you that the Mother of God, the Theotokos was the model of trust. Here is her icon on a doorknob hanger. It is to remind you to bring in something for our offering box.

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

Lesson 2: “We Are Good Stewards”

OBJECTIVES:

The students will be able to define the word “steward” as “caretaker.” They will be able to answer correctly whether or not the persons in the stories.  

TIME:   10 Minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Offering Box

Sticks, and rope from previous week.

(Sticks should be made into a cross, any other shape, or at least tied together.)

Doorknob reminder, St. Nicholas (1/child, labeled with name ahead of time)

FOR THE CATECHIST:

Last week the students learned that the world belongs to God, the Creator. This week the lesson will explain that God loves His Creation, and therefore, we must respect creation. The students will also learn that God gave human beings the role of “steward,” or “caretaker,” of creation.

Within the lesson are a variety of scenes that can be used to help students examine and think about what they might do to show respect for other people, others’ possessions; the natural world, and, in particular, parents and other adults in the child’s immediate environment.  Choose the scene most appropriate for your group and within your time constraints.

INTRODUCTION:

Last week we learned the answers to the question, “Who made the world, and to whom does it belong?” Does anyone remember the answer? Did anyone bring in an offering for our offering box? [Collect offerings.]

CONTENT:

Remember my story about a fort that you had built, and that it belonged to you? Let’s pretend that these sticks are part of your fort. [Pause for a moment.] How would you feel if your brother or sister came along and broke what you had made? [Allow children to express feelings.]

God created the world. It is his. He wants us to respect what He made, and not destroy things on purpose. In fact, he wants people to TAKE CARE OF what He made. We are to be the caretakers of creation. Can you say “caretakers” with me? Another word for caretaker is “steward.” Can you say “steward?”

Let’s think of things that you take care of. What do you take care of, or help take care of, at your house? [Allow responses. After each, say “You are a good caretaker, or steward, of ________.”]

There is another way in which we are stewards. We are good stewards when we use what we have to care for one another. God wants each person to be warm in the winter, and not hungry. He made each person. He loves each person. “If you have two coats, and see someone who has none, you are to give one of your coats to him.” When we share with those in need, we are good stewards. Let’s see if you understand what a good caretaker, or good steward is.

[Using one (or more if you have longer than 10 minutes) of the scenes listed below, ask students to tell whether the child in the scene was being a good steward. ]

1) Joseph had wanted a puppy for a long, long time.  His father told him that it took work to have a pet. Joseph told his father he was ready. Joseph was delighted when they brought home the black cocker spaniel pup.

“He’s yours now,” said Dad.  “You’ll need to feed him and walk him.”

"I will!”  Joseph shouted.

The next morning, Joseph heard his father calling him. “The dog needs to go outside.” Joseph turned over and covered his head with his blanket. 

What does Joseph agree to do?

What do you think will happen if Joseph doesn’t take the dog outside?

Is Joseph being a good caretaker, or steward of what has been given him?

What should Joseph do for the dog?

2) Thekla had many, many, toys. Her family had enough money to buy her almost anything she wanted. At Christmastime she saw a story about people collecting toys for needy children. She could only imagine what it would be like to not have a new toy at Christmas. She knew what she had to do. She went to her room and looked for some of the nicest toys. Then she cleaned them up and put them on her bed. When her mom came to see what she was doing, she said, “Mommy, I want to give these to the children who don’t have toys this Christmas.”

What did Thekla see on television?

Have you ever seen people collecting toys for the needy?

Can you imagine not having a nice toy at Christmas?

Was Thekla a good steward of what she had been given?

3) Sandra’s parakeet lay on the bottom of the cage. Sandra’s mother found the parakeet and noticed that the water dish was dry again.   

What happened to Sandra’s parakeet?  Why? 

Did Sandra take care of her pet?

Was she a good caretaker, or steward of her pet?

How do you take care of your pet?

 4) Mother came into the room and saw Legos on the living room floor.  “I told you to pick up your toys, Susan,” her mother said.  “I am, Mother,” replied Susan, “some of them went behind the chair.” Mother smiled.

What had Susan done with her Legos? 

Why was her mother upset with her?

Was Susan a good caretakers, or stewards of her toys? 

5) Joy was having a real bad day. Her mom got mad when she wouldn’t eat her breakfast. Her brother lied and said that Joy was the one who made the mess with the toothpaste. And at school the teacher hadn’t called on her when she was sure of the answer to the math problem. On the way home from the bus Joy felt mad all over again. She lagged behind the others. Then she purposely walked through the pretty flower bed of their neighbor. She knew she wouldn’t get caught because no on was watching.

What kind of day did Joy have?

Because Joy was mad, what did she do?

What could she have done instead?

Did Joy respect creation?

Was she a good steward?

CLOSING:

A long time ago a young boy was raised in a family that had a lot of money. When he got older, the parents gave all the money to him. He could have had anything he wanted. He grew up and became a priest, and then a bishop. He remembered that everything really belongs to God, and that we are good stewards when we use what God gives us to help another person.

The bishop used his money to help many, many poor people.

We are learning to bring money in to the church. The church uses money to help those in need. The doorknob reminder this week, so you can remember to bring in an offering, is about that bishop. His name is St. Nicholas. We are to remember that all we have comes from God. We are to be good stewards of what we have been given, and give to those in need.

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004 

Lesson 3: “We Obey God”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will pray in thanksgiving for 1) all that God gives us, especially His Son, and 2) will be able to state that God wants us to be thankful by offering a part of what He has given us to the church.

TIME:   10 Minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

At least 20 pennies, and/or enough so that each child has 10

Icon of the Nativity (provided)

Doorknob reminder, Abraham (1/child, labeled with name ahead of time)

FOR THE CATECHIST:

The children know the meaning of “obey;” and in this lesson it is explained in the context of obeying out of love. This lesson is about being obedient to God by being thankful; for all good things He has given, most especially His Son. 

INTRODUCTION:

In the last two weeks we’ve been learning how to offer something of yours, to God. We have been bringing in money for our offering box. Did anyone bring in an offering today for our offering box? [Collect offerings.]

Let’s review what we learned. Who made the world and everything in it? (God) To whom does everything belong? (God) God wants us to be good caretakers or stewards. If you have a pet, what is one thing you do to show that you are a good caretaker, or steward, of your pet? (Feed, bathe, take it out.)

CONTENT:

This week’s lesson is on obeying, or obedience. If I said, “You must obey me, because I’m your teacher.” What does that mean? [Allow responses.] We obey our parents, and teachers, because they take care of us, and love us. Does God want us to obey Him? [Allow responses.]

We have learned that God loves each person that He created. He wants us to be the best people we can be. He has rules that help us be our best. For example, He told us that we should not lie. He told us also that we should not steal. [Allow responses to:] If someone lied to you, how do you feel? What about if someone stole something from you?

It hurts when God’s rules are broken. When we obey God, we are doing what God wants. God has other rules which don’t always hurt when they’re broken. If someone gives you a gift, what do you say? (Thank you.) That is one of God’s rules, to be thankful. Is it difficult to say thank you? (No.) Does it hurt when someone doesn’t say thank you? [Allow responses.] God has given us so much. He wants us to say thank you by offering some of what we have to the church. That is our way of saying thank you to God. Let’s see how well you were listening. How do we say thank you to God? (By offering a part of what God has given us, to the church.)

I brought some pennies to help us learn a special way of counting. It’s called “Counting to 10 to say “Thank you” to God.” Can you say that with me . . . Let’s pretend you have 10 pennies in your piggy bank, and let’s count to 10 together. [As you do so, place the pennies one by one. Stop at nine.] I stopped at nine didn’t I? If you have 10 pennies, keep nine, and give the tenth to the church to say thank you to God. [Place 10^th penny in the offering box.] Let’s try it again. [If you have brought 10 pennies for each child, you can have them do the exercise with you. Repeat, stopping at nine.] What should I do with the tenth penny? (Place it in the offering box.]

Abraham taught us the tenth rule. Long ago there was a battle, and Abraham’s army won. Because they won, they were bringing home lots of sheep and valuable items. Abraham met a priest who blessed him and offered him bread and wine. Abraham knew that God had given him the victory—God had made Abraham win the battle. Abraham counted out all he had won, beginning with the sheep.  When he came to the number 10 each time, he gave it to the priest. In this way, Abraham thanked God.

Did God ever give us anything? [Allow responses.] What is the most important gift that God gave us? Here is a clue. [Hold up cover of offering box to show Nativity icon.] God gave us Jesus, His only-begotten Son. Jesus showed us the way to God, so that we can live united with God now and forever. There is no greater gift. How does God want us to say “thank you?” (By offering a part of what He has given us to the church.)

CLOSING:

Let’s stand and bring our tenth penny before the icon of the Nativity. I’ll say a short prayer, and then I want each of you to think of something you are thankful for. [If time allows, have each child state what they are thankful for. Make the sign of the cross and say:] Heavenly Father, we thank you for all that you have given us, especially your Son, Jesus. Let’s say “Thank you, Father,” together . . . now think of one thing to say thank you to God for . . .  Then bring your penny to the offering box, and say “Thank you, God,” as you place your penny . . . Our doorknob reminder for this week is Abraham, who taught us how to obey God by being thankful.

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

Lesson 4: We Serve God

OBJECTIVES:

The students will be able to state that God wants us to serve Him by offering our time, talent and treasure to Him.

TIME:   10 Minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Doorknob reminder, St. Thekla (1/child, labeled with name ahead of time)

Chalkboard

 

FOR THE CATECHIST:

With the liturgical response, “To Thee, O Lord,” the students are led to consider that we are to give more than a tithe to the church; we are to offer ourselves to God and to serve others. In preparation for this lesson, think of ways the children may be able to serve the church, to add to the suggestions given in the lesson. Perhaps you could arrange beforehand with the priest for the K-1 group to do something special, such as to pass the collection plate or serve the elderly at coffee hour; or sing the Lord Have Mercy responses during the Litany of Supplication.  You could use this time in class to tell them how they will participate. 

INTRODUCTION:

This is our final lesson about learning how to give to the church. Let’s see if you remember any of the answers to these questions.

• If I say, “God made everything, and everything belongs to ____ . . .” What is the missing word? (God.) We trust God, and ask for what we need, by saying, “Lord, have mercy.”
• If you can bow, show me. If you can do a prostration, show me. These show that we know we are nothing, without God.
• We learned that we are to be steward of God’s creation. What does a steward do? (Takes care of what he/she has been given, creation, and one another.) What is another word for steward? (Caretaker).
• We learned special way of counting to 10, called “Counting to 10 to say thank you to God.” When we do that, say with pennies, what do we do we do with number 10? (It goes to God at church.)

You have been very good students. We are to keep these lessons in our hearts all year. Every Sunday we will be collecting our offering to God. Did anyone bring in an offering today for our offering box? [Collect offerings.]

Let’s begin today’s lesson. If you have heard the phrase “To Thee, O Lord,” stand up. Where have you heard the phrase? (Church.) What does it mean? [Allow responses.] When we say that phrase, we are telling God that we love Him very much. We are telling Him that we want to live as Jesus did, and serve others. You may sit down.

CONTENT:

We have learned that God made the whole world, and us. The world belongs to God, and so do we. He made us. We say all of that when we say “To thee, O Lord

Let’s think of ways we can please God by giving our time to serve others. [Help the children think of ways they can serve in the church (sending cards to the sick, opening doors, tidying up the church, giving out bulletins, offering prayers for the sick at the start of each class.) If possible, plan to serve as a class doing one of the ideas they suggest.]

CLOSING:    

St. Thekla is on the doorknob reminder this week. She heard St. Paul talk about Jesus, and she decided to spend ALL her time serving others. She became a preacher and traveled telling people about Jesus. She gave herself to God. She will help us remember that we belong to God, because He made us; and we want to be give ourselves to Him!

Lesson Plans Grades 2-3

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

 

Lesson 3: “We Obey God”

a special portion of what we receive or earn. He wants us to give 1/10 Develop the idea of first fruits. Explain that a long time ago people (including Moses) took the best of their crops and animals and dedicated them to the Lord in thanksgiving. The people not only took the best crops and animals, but they offered them to the Lord in thanksgiving before they used the rest of the crops and animals for themselves. We call this the offering of “first fruits.”  We offer to God the first fruits, too. For everything we receive, like allowance, we offer a portion to God.

OBJECTIVES:

The students will demonstrate how to tithe using objects.

TIME: 10 minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Coins or anything you have 20 of

Tithing Stories Handout (provided)

Chalkboard and chalk or large paper and markers

FOR THE CATECHIST:

The concept of tithing—giving 1/10 of what we earn or receive—is explained in this lesson. The story of Abraham and Melchizedek tells how Abraham offered to the priest Melchizedek 1/10 of all he had after Melchizedek blessed Abraham and offered him wine and bread. This is the earliest recorded instance of tithing in the Bible, the first of several, and it is in the first few pages of the Bible (Genesis 14:7-20).

INTRODUCTION:

Who remembered to bring an offering for our special box? Are the doorknob reminders helping you remember? We have been learning about giving back to God. Last week we learned the word, “steward.” What is a steward? (Caretaker.) Who was our exemplar of stewardship on the doorknob reminder? (St. Nicholas.) The week before we learned that God is the Creator of all and that we trust Him to provide for us. Who was our exemplar of trust? (The Theotokos.) Today we will learn about the word “tithe.” [Write on board.]

CONTENT:

[Pass out Tithing Stories, read aloud “Abraham and Melchizedek.”]

Let’s review, what did Abraham do to thank God’s priest? (He counted out 10 of everything, and gave the 10^th to Melchizedek.) When we offer to God the tenth of all we have, we are tithing.

[Have a student come forward and count the objects you have brought, up to nine. Have the child take the tenth object to the icon corner, or place it in the offering box. Repeat with several students, use the word tithe as appropriate.]

Abraham was always obedient to God. He taught his grandson, Jacob, how to tithe. Here is a story about Jacob. [Read aloud “Abraham’s Grandson Jacob.”

CLOSING:

Our exemplar for obeying God is Abraham. Like Abraham, we want to tithe when we make our offering. What number is the key to learning how to tithe? The number 10. Remember how we practiced, and let me know how it works next class. 

Tithing Stories

Abraham and Melchizedek

A long time ago, God called a man to leave his country and to journey to a new land. This man’s name was Abraham. Abraham could have disobeyed God, but he chose to obey. Abraham and his family journeyed with God. Abraham was always obedient to God.

During the journey they battled with other people, and with God’s help, they won. Then Abraham met a priest named Melchizedek. Melchizedek blessed Abraham and gave him bread and wine. Abraham knew it was right to thank God for His help in winning the battle. He counted out what he had, apples for example. Every time he came to the number 10, he gave that apple to Melchizedek. Abraham thanked God by giving him something in return. Let’s review, what did Abraham do to thank God’s priest? (He counted out 10 of everything, and gave the 10^th to Melchizedek.)

Paraphrased from Genesis 14:7-20

Abraham’s Grandson Jacob

Once, Abraham’s grandson Jacob was on a journey. He fell asleep at night and had a dream. In his dream he saw a ladder reaching to heaven. Angels were going up and down on the ladder. The Lord was standing above the ladder and said to Jacob:

“I am the Lord God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and your children. You shall have many children and they will bless all the families on the earth. I am with you and will guard you. I will provide for all your needs. I will bring you back to this place.”

When Jacob awoke, he said, “This place is surely the house of God. Jacob set a stone as a pillar and poured oil on top of it. Then Jacob made a promise. “If God will be with me, and if He provides for me, I will return to God a tithe of all He gives to me.”

Paraphrased from Genesis 28:10-22

 

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

 

Lesson 4: “We Give Ourselves to God”

OBJECTIVES

The students will be able to state, when asked, that God wants us to give ourselves to Him, as a servant. They will be able to explain serving as being kind and doing good deeds.

TIME:  15 Minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Greatest Commandment Handout (provided)

Crayons

 

FOR THE CATECHIST:

Although the children have learned to tithe in the last lesson, tithing is actually only the beginning of how we show our thankfulness to God. What God truly desires is that we submit ourselves as servants to Him, so that we may be His hands and His heart. He desires our time, and our talent as well as our tithe. The Greatest Commandment is an expression of what truly pleases God. Consider having the children memorize the scriptural phrase.

It is suggested that the children experience serving the Church by rejoining the congregation at the end of the lesson, to tidy the church, open doors, etc. If you choose NOT to do this, you will take the final paragraph of “Content” and place it in the “Closing.”

INTRODUCTION:

Was anyone successful in remembering to tithe for their offering today? [Allow sharing.] In lesson one, we learned that God is Creator of all, including us. All of creation belongs to God. That is the starting point for our lesson today.

[Allow responses.] How many of you want to go to heaven? What do you think you need to do to go to heaven?

CONTENT

One day a man asked Jesus what he had to do to go to heaven. What do you think Jesus said? [Allow responses.]

Here is the answer: [Pass out handout and crayons.] “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all  your mind.”

Look at the cartoon  figures below the quote. You can choose either the boy or girl. I want you to take your crayon, and color the head of the child. Did Jesus tell us to love God only with our mind? No. Here is the key to understanding the Greatest Commandment. Look at the word “all.” How many times do you see it? (Four) We are commanded to love God with all of ourselves. Take your crayon and color the whole child.

So, God wants us to tithe, but He also wants us to give our life to Him. What does this mean?

God wants us to be His servants in the world. He wants us to be kind, and to do good deeds. What does God want us to do as His servants? (To be kind and to do good deeds.)  [Allow responses to the following.] If your grandmother is sick, what is something you could do to make her life easier? If Father has asked for people to help out cleaning the church, what is something you could do? If we have a food drive here at church, what can you do?

God wants us to offer ourselves to Him, with our time, and our talents. Let’s think about people at church who offer their talents. [Help the children mention the various roles and people who fill them, for example, choir members, altar servers, people who bake prosphora, treasurer, etc.] Let’s remember what we have learned already. God made everything, including us, and everything belongs to God, including us! When we give ourselves to God, we are giving what belongs to Him already.

[If you don’t plan to leave your classroom, use this paragraph as part of your Closing.] Our exemplar for giving oneself to God is St. Thekla She heard St. Paul speak about Jesus, and decided to travel spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. This was very dangerous work for a woman in those days. She gave her whole life to serving Jesus Christ. She is our exemplar of giving oneself to God.

To have a church, it is necessary for many people to contribute their time and talent. What can we do? [Allow responses. Consider stopping the lesson and rejoining the congregation and helping in whatever way you can. Some examples might be, organizing the food from the food drive, “doorpeople” who open the doors for those coming or going, passing out bulletins, tidying the nave. As you do so, repeat to the children that God wants us to offer ourselves to Him.]

CLOSING:

[Pass out doorknob reminders.]

The Greatest Commandment

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your  mind.”

Lesson Plans Grades 4-5

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

Lesson 1: “We Depend on God”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will be able to explain John 15:7 as “We can do nothing without God. We must depend on God for all things, and trust God.”

TIME:  10 minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Vine and Branches Handout (provided)

Bible:  Genesis 1:26-27; Luke 10: 7 and John 15:7

Chalkboard and chalk or large paper and markers

 

FOR THE CATECHIST:

Every week the children will be asked to bring in an offering for your class box. Check to see if it is in each lesson plan, and if it isn’t, determine when you will collect the offering and write it in. Likewise, at the conclusion of each lesson, the doorknob hanger reminders are to be given out. Check to see if that is in each lesson plan, and if it isn’t, write it in.

This is the first of four lessons on tithing.  This lesson should be presented after your normal lesson for the day.  For that reason, no opening prayer is given in this guide and the materials listed here are only for this segment of your lesson. Words that appear in italics provide the intent of the writer, as if teaching this lesson. Answers appear in parentheses. Do not read aloud to the children from this lesson plan!

The students will begin by reviewing that we are made in God’s image, which allows us to be connected intimately with God. The focus of this lesson is the Gospel passage that Jesus speaks to the disciples, “I am the vine and you are the branches,” John 15:7. God is our source of life. We depend on Him, and trust Him.

INTRODUCTION:

For a few minutes now, we are going to have a special lesson. We will have three other special lessons in the next three weeks. These special lessons are to help us remember that God has given us everything, and it is only right that we should give back to God in thanksgiving. I have a special box here. I would like you to bring something to give to God each week. How many of you already contribute to the parish each week? We will place your offerings in the box.

CONTENT:

The first book of the Bible, Genesis, tells about the creation of human beings. Who can tell me something about human beings from the creation stories? [Allow responses.] Have a student read aloud Genesis 1:26-27.] Out of all creation, only the human person shares God’s image. Each of us is made in God’s image. God made us for a special reason—to live united with Him now and forever.

So, God has given us so much. What can we give God? Or what does God expect of us.  [Allow responses. Write on board: “God wants us to:”] First, we are to “Realize that we depend on Him, and trust Him for everything.”[Write on board

To remember our dependence on God there is a phrase that Jesus taught us. [Pass out handout and pencils.] Do you see the strong vine at the bottom, and the branches coming out of it? Write your name on two of the branches, and “God” on the vine. Now carefully tear your paper so that one of the branches is no long connected to the vine. Don’t tear it all the way off of the paper. If this were a real branch, would it live much longer? Why not?

Now look at the branch still connected to the vine. Draw several leaves growing from that branch. This activity is a metaphor for our lives. Below the drawing, we’ll write the words of Jesus: “I am the vine, you are the branches .  . . without Me, you can do nothing.” John 15:5 What does the saying mean? (We need to stay close to God because we depend on Him for everything.)

When we remember that we depend on God for everything, we learn to trust Him. We try to stay connected to Him. How do we do that? (Prayer, scripture, church).When and where do you pray? [Allow responses. Encourage class to find a time and place to pray every day.]. 

CLOSING:

Our special program, To Tithe is To Love, begins today. To help you remember to bring an offering to church to place in our box, we have doorknob hangers that tell you about a saint who had one of four qualities that we all try to have so that we give freely and cheerfully to the church. Today’s quality is trust. The Theotokos, the Mother of God, had to trust that God would take care of her. She is a good example, or exemplar of trust. Take this home and put it on your doorknob so that next week you can bring your offering for our special box.

Vine and Branches 

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE
2004

Lesson 2: “We Are Stewards”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will answer when asked, that a steward is a caretaker, and be able to complete a parallel table that shows the details of the story compared with our lives.

TIME:  10 minutes 

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Chalkboard and chalk or large paper and markers

Copies of Psalm 104 excerpts (provided

FOR THE CATECHIST:

The lesson presents the concept of stewardship by way of a story. The students will review the previous lesson concept, that God created all that is, and that everything belongs to God by reading excerpts from Psalm 104.

INTRODUCTION:

Last week we learned about the quality of trust. Trust is one of four qualities that help us bring an offering to God each week. Did anyone remember to bring an offering for our box? For this week’s lesson, we’ll begin with a story. And then read from a psalm.

CONTENT:

Do you know anyone who has a garden? This is a story about a garden, a family, and a steward, or caretaker.

There was a family with three children. They lived in the country on a farm. They grew their own fruits and vegetables. One day they received a phone call. Their grandmother was very sick and would probably die in a few days. It was summer, so the family, children and all, took the train across the

country to be with their grandmother and family. A man named Joe was hired to be the caretaker, or steward, of the garden. Joe would be allowed to take some vegetables for his own use.

About a week after they arrived, the grandmother died. The family stayed for another week, and then headed home.

When they arrived, the father of the family was shocked to see his garden. It had been a dry couple of weeks, and the plants were badly in need of water. A fence had a break in it and rabbits had climbed through and eaten the cabbages and carrots. The tomatoes that had been ready for picking were lying on the ground.

In a few minutes a neighbor came over with a basket of vegetables. He explained the situation. “Joe didn’t seem to care too much about working. He went into town every day and didn’t come home until night. When I tried to speak to him, he told me that he didn’t need the money and was about to leave town anyway. When I told him he was wrong to not care for your garden, he just shrugged and said he didn’t do anything wrong. It wasn’t like he was stealing something.”

The story ends here. In the story, the father left the garden in the care of Joe. What was Joe’s job  called in the story? (Steward or Caretaker) Did the garden belong to Joe? (No.) If you were the father of the family, what might you have said to Joe? [Allow responses.]

The story I told you applies to you and I. Let’s see if you can find the connection, with the help of some verses from Psalm 104. [Pass out Psalm 104 excerpt, have students read aloud.]

[Write on board as to make two columns: “Garden” and “All That Is.” As you discuss the parallels with the students, you will end up with the two columns reading:

GARDEN                    ALL THAT IS

Owner: Farmer Owner: God

Steward: Joe                Stewards: Us

Does anyone see a connection yet? In the story, who owns the garden? (Farmer) [Write “Owner: farmer under Garden.] Now, let’s think about us. Who owns the sky? Who owns the rivers? All that is belongs to God.  Who was the steward for the garden? (Joe)

In the first words of the Bible, God gave the world to Adam, who is a symbol for all humanity. He made Adam, and us, stewards of creation. Everything that is, belongs to God. Everything we have, belongs to God. So, who is the steward of all that is? (All of us.) Just as Joe should have returned to the farmer a well-cared for garden, as well as some of the best produce, we should give back to God from everything he has given us.

We speak of stewardship in the church as the three T’s: time, talent, and treasure. From all of these we are to return a portion to God. I didn’t use the word “give.” What is the difference between “give” and “return”, and why is “return” the right word? (Because “give” makes it seem like we own what we have, when everything we have is God’s.) What is a steward? (A caretaker) What are the three T’s of stewardship? (Time, talent, and treasure.)

CLOSING:

St. Nicholas was a very good steward. He had a lot of money from his family, and he gave it to poor people to help them out. We are good stewards when we use our talents in church. We can open doors for people, or help tidy the church, or even just smile at people. We are also good stewards when we bring an offering of what we have to God. St. Nicholas is on our doorknob reminder for this week. Next week, remember to bring in an offering for our box.

Psalm 104

Excerpted

Verses1-2

Bless the Lord, O my soul!

O Lord my God, You are very great:

You are clothed with honor and majesty,

Who cover Yourself with light as with a garment,

Who stretch out the heavens like a curtain.

 

Verses 10-13

He sends the springs into the valleys;

They flow among the hills.

They give drink to every beast of the field;

The wild donkeys quench their thirst.

By them the birds of the heavens have their home;

They sing among the branches.

He waters the hills from His upper chambers;

The earth is satisfied with the fruit of Your works.

O Lord, how manifold are Your works!

In wisdom You have made them all.

The earth is full of Your possessions . . .

 

Verse 35

Bless the Lord, O my soul!

Praise the Lord!

 

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

Lesson 3: “We Obey God”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will answer when asked, that tithing began with Abraham. They will be able to define “tithe” as 1/10 of what they earn and receive.

TIME:  10 minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Bible marked at Genesis 14:17-20, and 28:20-22, and Matthew 23:23

Chalkboard and chalk or large paper and markers

A ten dollar bill; ten one dollar bills; ten dimes; ten pennies

FOR THE CATECHIST:

In this lesson tithing will be explained. Within the lesson are examples from the Old Testament of times when people offered at least one-tenth of their goods to God in thanksgiving for something God did for them. The students will be challenged to tithe in a spirit of thankfulness to God for His blessings.  We tithe not because God forces us to do so, but because love for Him. The students will learn to compute 10%. 

INTRODUCTION:

Last week we learned the word steward. Who remembers what it means? (Caretaker). This week we’ll build on the fact that nothing we have is ours, and learn how we are to return to God a portion of what He has given us. How many of you know how to work with percentages? That will come in handy.

CONTENT:

Let’s think back to Joe and the farmer. Let’s pretend they lived in the Old Testament. This is how the story would have played out. Joe would have taken care of the garden, knowing that he was only the servant of a great master. He would have also prepared a basket of the finest produce from the garden—the “first-fruits,” in thanksgiving for the piece of land that was entrusted to him. He would want show that under his care the land had produced a rich harvest, and therefore, he would be worth keeping as a servant.

Last week I mentioned the three T’s of stewardship. Does anyone recall what they are? (Time, talent, and treasure). We are to help our church with both our time and our talent. We are also to help with our treasure, namely, any money that comes our way, both through work, and through gifts.

How much should we give? Since the time of Abraham in the Old Testament, people gave 1/10, called “a tithe,” of all they had. Here are some passages that tell about tithing. [Have students read the following aloud, making sure the students speak clearly the passage about tithing.]

1) Genesis 14:7-20 (Abram gives thanks for his victory over Chedorlaoner and offered a tithe for all he had. Abram was later called Abraham.)  “...and Abram gave him a tenth of everything.”

 

2) Genesis 28:20-22    Jacob had a vision of many wonderful things God would provide for him. Jacob vowed to tithe from all God would give him:  “I will give the tenth to Thee.”  (Verse 22)

Tithing has been the way to show worship of God, since the time of Abraham. At the time of Jesus, it was understood and practiced. Jesus was scolding the Pharisees who tithed, but did not show justice, mercy, or faith. He told them it was right to tithe, but they should also have the right spiritual attitude. Let’s read Matthew 23:23.

Let’s try doing the math. If I have a dollar, how much should I give when I tithe? [Demonstrate on the board if necessary, and let students do other examples.]

[Use an example of a dollar.  One dollar = 10 dimes.  If you had a dollar, how much should you tithe?  (1/10^th of a dollar or 10 cents) 

Use the example of $10.00.  Suppose you got a birthday gift of $10.00. 

Ten dollars =10 dollar bills.  How much should you tithe? (1/10^th of ten dollars = 1 dollar)

You might say, “So, out of your birthday gift of $10 you give God $1.00 (meaning to the Church).  Is that too much to give to God?  Discuss reactions.]

 

CLOSING:

 Abraham was obedient to God long before the passage on tithing. He was both obedient and trusting. He knew that God was God, and he was man. He knew that it was only right to return to God what God had given him. Abraham is our exemplar of obedience.

 

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

 

Lesson 4: “We Offer Ourselves as God’s Servants”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will choose a way to help at church as a way of showing that they offer themselves to God through their time and talents.

TIME:  10 Minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Copies of : The Greatest Commandment (provided)

Chalkboard and chalk or large paper and markers

Pencils for each student

 

FOR THE CATECHIST:

Although the children have learned to tithe in the last lesson, tithing is actually only the beginning of how we show our thankfulness to God. What God truly desires is that we submit ourselves as servants to Him, so that we may be His hands and His heart. He desires our time, and our talent as well as our tithe. The Greatest Commandment is an expression of what truly pleases God. Consider having the children memorize the scriptural phrase.

INTRODUCTION:

Was anyone successful in remembering to tithe for their offering today? [Allow sharing.] In lesson one, we learned that God is Creator of all, including us. All of creation belongs to God. That is the starting point for our lesson today.

[Allow responses.] How many of you want to go to heaven? What do you think you need to do to go to heaven?

CONTENT:

One day a man asked Jesus what he had to do to go to heaven. What do you think Jesus said? [Allow responses.]

Here is the answer: [Pass out handout.] “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all  your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.”

God wants us to tithe, but as you can see from the Greatest Commandment, He also wants us to give our life to Him. What does this mean?

God wants us to be His servants in the world. He wants us to be kind, and to do good deeds. What does God want us to do as His servants? (To be kind and to do good deeds.)  [Allow responses to the following.] If your grandmother is sick, what is something you could do to make her life easier? If

Father has asked for people to help out cleaning the church, what is something you could do? If we have a food drive here at church, what can you do?

God wants us to offer ourselves to Him.by giving of our time and talents. Let’s make a list about all the people at church who offer their talents. [Help the children mention the various roles and people who fill them, for example, choir members, altar servers, people who bake prosphora, treasurer, etc.] Let’s remember what we have learned already. God made everything, including us, and everything belongs to God, including us! When we give ourselves to God, we are giving what belongs to Him already.

To have a church, it is necessary for many people to contribute their time and talent. What can we do? [Allow responses. Consider organizing the food from the food drive, “doorpeople” who open the doors for those coming or going, passing out bulletins, tidying the nave.] I challenge you to find a way to help at church. On the handout that has the Greatest Commandment, I would like you to write down: “I will offer myself to God through ______________________. I want you to choose one way you will offer yourself to God through your time and talent. Take the page home, place it where it will remind you to offer yourself to God. [Permit students to use “love my neighbor” as well, as a touchstone for what they will do.]

CLOSING:

Our exemplar for giving oneself to God is St. Thekla She heard St. Paul speak about Jesus, and decided to travel spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. This was very dangerous work for a woman in those days. She gave her whole life to serving Jesus Christ. She is our exemplar of giving oneself to God.

The Greatest Commandment

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” Luke 10:27 

Lesson Plans Grade MS

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

 

Lesson 1: “We Trust God”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will be able to state that thankfulness results when one realizes dependence on, and trust in, God.

TIME:  10 minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Shoebox with poster art for lid

Material to make one or more posters for the parish, entitled:  “We Trust God”  (a piece of posterboard, or several depending on the size of your class, and individual sheets of paper so the students can work in pairs on their own piece which can be pasted to the posterboard to make a collage, glue sticks, magazines, markers, paint, etc.)

FOR THE CATECHIST:

Every week the children will be asked to bring in an offering for your class box. Check to see if it is in each lesson plan, and if it isn’t, determine when you will collect the offering and write it in. Likewise, at the conclusion of each lesson, the doorknob hanger reminders are to be given out. Check to see if that is in each lesson plan, and if it isn’t, write it in.

This is the first of four lessons on tithing.  This lesson should be presented after your normal lesson for the day.  For that reason, no opening prayer is given in this guide and the materials listed here are only for this segment of your lesson. Words that appear in italics provide the intent of the writer, as if teaching this lesson. Answers appear in parentheses. Do not read aloud to the children from this lesson plan!

The students will consider that they are nothing without God. All that is God created, and all belongs to God, even what they think belongs to them. What does God require of us? We are to offer back to God, first, our grateful hearts—we are to give thanks.

The posters can serve as reminder that God gives us all many blessings, including the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ.  For these gifts, we should be grateful.

INTRODUCTION:

For a  few minutes now, we are going to have a special lesson. We will have three other special lessons in the next three weeks. These special lessons are to help us remember that God has given us everything, and it is only right that we should give back to God in thanksgiving. We will learn why bringing an offering to church each week is so important. I have a special box here. I would like you to bring something to give to God each week. How many of you already contribute to the parish each week? We will place your offerings in the box.

CONTENT:

Our mini-lesson today is called “We Trust God.” Think for a minute about the word trust, or “to depend on.” Who are some of the people on whom we depend?  [Make sure God is mentioned.] When  we depend on someone, we are saying that we need them. Do we need God? [Allow responses.] Does everyone feel the way we do? Why or Why not?

When a person realizes that all they have, and all they are, depends on God, what attitudes do they begin to develop towards God? [Write responses on board. Make sure “thankful” is on the board.]

Our task today is to make a poster that will remind those in our parish that first, all we have belongs to God;, second,, that we trust God;, and third, that we should be thankful to God. We’ll work together to make poster called “We Trust God.”I have some magazines, pencils and paper for either pasting, or drawing pictures or writing words so that people will remember to be thankful to God.

What words or pictures can convey that all we have belongs to God? What can convey that we trust God? Finally, what will lead people to think of giving thanks to God? [Write responses on the board.] Use these words, or pictures, and create a paper that will be added to our collage. I would like someone to write out three phrases for the collage: “We Depend on God,” “We Trust God,” “We are Thankful to God.” Next week we will add more to these, so cover only half of the space.

CLOSING:

Our special program, To Tithe is To Love, begins today. To help you remember to bring an offering to church to place in our box, we have doorknob hangers that tell you about a saint who had one of four qualities that we all try to have so that we give freely and cheerfully to the church. Today’s quality is trust. The Theotokos, the Mother of God, had to trust that God would take care of her. She is a good example, or exemplar of trust. Take this home and put it on your doorknob so that next week you can bring your offering for our special box.

 

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

Lesson 2: “We Are Good Stewards”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will be able to explain the word “stewardship” as using well what God has entrusted to us. They will note its three components, time, talent, and treasure. 

TIME:  10 minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Posters (continued from previous week), materials for continuing project

Chalkboard

FOR THE CATECHIST:

In this lesson students will focus on stewardship as returning to God a portion of their time, talent, and treasure Students will brainstorm ways they can use their particular talents in service to others.  Talents are to be understood in the broadest sense—those involving one’s hands, heart, physical capabilities, musical, academic, and artistic traits.

INTRODUCTION:

Last week we learned that we are nothing without God. God loves us, and has given us so much.
God wants us to have “an attitude of gratitude.”  What does “gratitude” mean? (Thankfulness). Let’s expand our thinking about what God desires, and deserves. Our keyword for today’s lesson is: stewardship. [Write stewardship on the board.]

CONTENT:

The word “steward” means “caretaker.” A steward is not the owner of what he or she works with, but rather, one to whom it has been entrusted. For example, an executive in a business has a great deal to do with whether the business earns money for its owners, or loses money. Yet, he is not the owner.  Would the owner want an executive who improves the business, or just keeps it going? (Improves) Keeping that in mind, let me recall for you a story Jesus told.

The man in the story is a owner of a business with three stores. Knowing he has to be gone for a long time, he chooses three of his managers to take full charge of each of the stores during his absence. The first manager, or steward, is given charge of the largest store. When the owner returns, the first steward shows that he has doubled the profit of his store. The second steward, upon the owner’s return, likewise shows that he doubled the profit of the second store. The third steward, was given the smallest store. He shows the owner, upon his return, that he kept his store safe, by closing it during the owner’s trip.

The owner is very upset at the third steward. Why? [Allow responses.]

Now, Jesus told this story because each of us is a steward in God’s eyes. We are stewards of our time, our talents, and our treasure. What are we stewards of? (Our time, talents, and treasure.) Each of us has received many talents that can be used to bring good into the world, and to serve God. Do we own the talents we have received? Let’s think about some talents that can serve God. [Write on board: Talents involving one’s hands, heart, physical capabilities, musical, academic, and artistic traits.] Look at the categories I’ve written and let’s brainstorm. What talents in these categories can serve the church, or bring good into the world? [Allow responses. Have a student take notes on these for lesson 4.]

Using the responses we’ve come up with, let’s add to the posterboards. Today we need someone to write the words “We are Good Stewards” on a piece of paper to add to our posters. Let’s find magazines, or words to explain stewardship on our posters. The words “We Return to God” can also be used. Why are we “returning” and not “giving.”(Because all we have is from God, and belongs to God.)

[Allow time for additions to the posters, arrange for them to be hung in the parish.]

CLOSING:

St. Nicholas was a very good steward. He had a lot of money from his family, and he gave it to poor people to help them out. We are good stewards when we use our talents in church. We can open doors for people, or help tidy the church, or even just smile at people. We are also good stewards when we bring an offering of what we have to God. St. Nicholas is on our doorknob reminder for this week. Next week, remember to bring in an offering for our box.

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

 

Lesson 3: “We Obey God”

OBJECTIVE:

When asked, the students will be able to answer that tithing began with Abraham, and is one of God’s laws.

TIME:  10 minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Bible marked at Genesis 14:17-20

Chalkboard and chalk or large paper and markers

 

FOR THE CATECHIST:

This lesson focuses essentially on treasure.  “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Matthew 6:21

It is important for students to understand that money in and of itself is not bad. Otherwise, the Church would not ask for it, nor need it.  Then, when discussion begins about the specifics of tithing, your students will understand that money can be a joyful offering back to God Who gives all things. 

INTRODUCTION:

[Before class, write on the board:  “Where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.”]

Last week we learned the three “T’s” of stewardship. What are they? (Time, talent, and treasure.) This week, we’ll find out more about the last “t.” Let’s take a look at the board. The quote is from Jesus. Is it true or false, and why? [Allow responses.]

CONTENT:

The concept of last week’s lesson, returning a portion of what we have been given to God, is found in the first few pages of the Bible. After the fall from Paradise, God wanted to create a people into which His Son would be born. He began by calling Abram out of Ur. He promised him that he would be the father of a people who would be more numerous than the stars. Although this sounded to good to be true, Abram and his people followed God on a journey. Abram was obedient to God.

In another story, Abraham was asked to bring his son Isaac up to the top of a mountain, and then to slay him. This was almost unbearable to think about, but Abraham was obedient. God stayed his hand before he could harm Isaac. Abraham is a model of obedience.

Last week we discussed stewardship. Returning a portion of what we have to God is stewardship. In particular, we will see that 1/10 or, a tithe, of all we earn and receive, is the starting point for stewardship. Now to the story in which the word, “tithe,” first appears.

During their journey, Abram and his people run into the inhabitants of a place called Chedorlaomer. Abraham’s family conquers the opposition, and brings the livestock and other riches back with them from the battle. A mysterious figure appears, Melchizedek, and Abraham recognizes him as a priest of God. Let’s listen to what happens.

[Have a student read Genesis 14:17-20.] What did the priest offer Abraham? (A blessing, bread, and wine) What did Abraham do in return? (Offered a tithe, or tenth of all he had.)  So begins the understanding that the proper worship of God involves returning 1/10 of all we earn and receive.

There are many other references to tithing, and commandments to tithe in scripture. Tithing has been the way to show worship of God, since the time of Abraham. At the time of Jesus, it was understood and practiced.

Just as Abraham, Jacob, and all the people of God have tithed, so we are to continue. We are to determine 1/10 of all we receive and earn, keeping in mind that all belongs to God, we are just returning what is due Him. I challenge each of you to bring a tithe next week, for our box.

Do you remember the quote from Jesus we discussed earlier? When we tithe, we put our heart and treasure in the same place.

Let’s try doing the math. If I have a dollar, how much should I give when I tithe? [Demonstrate on the board if necessary, and let students do other examples.]

CLOSING:

Obedience is our key word this week. Abraham was obedient to God long before the passage on tithing. He was both obedient and trusting. He knew that God was God, and he was man. He knew that it was only right to return to God what God had given him. Abraham is our exemplar of obedience.

 

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

 

Lesson 4: “We Offer Ourselves as God’s Servants”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will be able to explain that God wants us not just to tithe, but to offer our whole life to His service. 

TIME:  10 minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Bible marked at Matthew 23:23 and Luke 10:27

FOR THE CATECHIST:

In this lesson the students think about how Jesus made the mandate to tithe into a greater mandate, namely to offer our whole lives to Christ. Using their remarks from the second lesson, they consider their talents in terms of what they can offer the church.

INTRODUCTION:

Did Jesus ever speak about tithing? [Allow responses.]

He did; not as “I command you to . . .” but rather, acknowledging that it was and is the practice to be followed. See if you can understand what I mean. [Have a student read Matthew 23:23]. Jesus is denouncing the Pharisees for only paying attention to the outward observance of the law without matching it with a right heart. Notice how he tells them to pay attention to the spiritual while not neglecting to tithe.

Most importantly, Jesus repeated the Greatest Commandment that was given to God’s people in the Old Testament. Do any of you know the Greatest Commandment? Let’s hear it in this passage.

[Have student read Luke 10:27]. Does God ask us for a tithe of our heart, our mind, our soul, and our strength?

Rather, we are to understand in this passage, and others such as, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God ,” (Matthew 6:32-33) that God wants our total allegiance, and love God is to be not only our first priority, but the very life within us, through His Holy Spirit. God wants us to offer ourselves to Him. God wants us to be His hands, and His heart in the world. Together, as church, through the Holy Spirit, we are God’s hands and heart.

[Allow discussion as time permits, using the following as starters:] Two lessons ago we spoke about being good stewards of our time, talent, and treasure. How do people serve the church, our parish, with their particular talents, or time? Do you have to have a lot of money to offer yourself to God? How do you serve the Church?

So, does God want merely our tithe? (No, God wants us to offer ourselves to His service.) When we serve the Church, unselfishly, we are offering ourselves to God.

CLOSING:

Our exemplar for giving oneself to God is St. Thekla She heard St. Paul speak about Jesus, and decided to travel spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. This was very dangerous work for a woman in those days. She gave her whole life to serving Jesus Christ. She is our exemplar of giving oneself to God. This is the end of this mini-unit. I hope you have been enriched, and challenged by what you have learned. We will continue bringing our offering to class each week, to place in the box.

Lesson Plans Grade HS

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

 

Lesson 1: “We Humbly Trust God”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will be able to explain humility according to one of the phrases on their handout. They will be able to state why we trust God.

TIME:  10 minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

“We Are Nothing, and Have Nothing, Without God” Handout (provided)

 

FOR THE CATECHIST:

Every week the students will be asked to bring in an offering for your class box. Check to see if it is in each lesson plan, and if it isn’t, determine when you will collect the offering and write it in. Likewise, at the conclusion of each lesson, the doorknob hanger reminders are to be given out. Check to see if that is in each lesson plan, and if it isn’t, write it in.

This is the first of four lessons on tithing.  This lesson should be presented after your normal lesson for the day.  For that reason, no opening prayer is given in this guide and the materials listed here are only for this segment of your lesson. Words that appear in italics provide the intent of the writer, as if teaching this lesson. Answers appear in parentheses. Do not read aloud to the children from this lesson plan!

The first lesson of the program asks the students to think about the foundational virtue for Orthodox spirituality, namely, humility. They will be introduced to its true, and life-giving meaning. They will share their feelings as they express humility through their bodies, with a prostration.

INTRODUCTION:

For a few minutes now, we are going to have a special lesson. We will have three other special lessons in the next three weeks. These special lessons are to help us understand why it is important to bring an offering each week. I have a special box here. I would like you to bring something to give to God each week. How many of you already contribute to the parish each week? We will place your offerings in the box. 

CONTENT:

[Write on board: humility.] Let’s begin by word associations. What comes to mind with this word? [Write responses.] Here is the word which is at the root of humility: humus [Write on board.] Humus is decayed plant and animal matter--what everything becomes when it is ready to return to the earth. Here are some more associations. [Write “Adam” on the board. Wait for their reactions.] The meaning of

Adam is “red clay.” The association with humility is as follows: [Write on board: red clay -> Adam (humankind) -> humus -> red clay.]

Humility is the root of all Orthodox spirituality. It has been misunderstood by many to mean degrading oneself. However, in truth, humility is making a statement, about all of us. Humility says, [Pass out “We Are Nothing, and Have Nothing, Without God.”  Have students read aloud each paragraph.]

Our lesson today asks us to recognize that we depend on God for everything. Let’s try using our body to describe humility. [Have students do a prostration; when their heads are touching the ground, ask them what their feelings are.] Our Orthodox spirituality leads us to a right understanding of God and humankind. We depend on God, we trust God, we worship and love God who provides us salvation. When we prostrate ourselves, our bodies are expressing these ideas.

CLOSING:

Our special program, To Tithe is To Love, begins today. To help you remember to bring an offering to church to place in our box, we have doorknob hangers that tell you about a saint who had one of four qualities that help us give back to God. Today’s quality is trust. The Theotokos, the Mother of God, had to trust that God would take care of her. She is a good example, or exemplar of trust. Take this home and put it on your doorknob so that next week you can bring your offering for our special box.

We Are Nothing, and Have Nothing, Without God

Humility says, “We are creatures, created by the almighty God. In now way are we equal to God. We are created from the earth. He is not. He is above all that is.”

We are created, but we are the summit of creation. To Adam was given dominion over the earth. We intercede for all creation. We care for creation.

Humility is recognizing our place in the created order--above all creatures, but still, a creature. Yet, the reason we exist is that we may live now and forever, with God.

Humility is encapsulated in the statement, “God is God, and we are not.”

Humility recognizes that without God we are nothing—without God we have nothing—we depend on God for everything. Recognizing our dependence on God leads us also to humility.

The icon for the large dome of our churches is called the Pantocrator. It is Jesus the Judge of All. Pantocrator, means “over all creation.” It is an icon that inspires us to humility.

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

 

Lesson 2: “Stewards of What God Has Given Us”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will learn the term stewardship,” and will consider how they must make a decision to put Christ and the Church first and foremost in their lives as distractions can make them lose sight of the goal.

TIME:  10 minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

Index Cards

Icon of Christ Saving Peter (provided)

Chalkboard

FOR THE CATECHIST

If you have more than 5 in your class, copy the icon for each five students and arrange them in small groups. The lesson begins by asking the students to write names of teen idols and desirable things. They then talk about any time or money that teen’s devote to what they have written. The question is posed as to whether these people and things are good or bad? The students then hold their cards until the conclusion of the lesson. At that point, after they know the term, “stewardship,” the teacher poses the question of how much of our time, talent, and treasure goes to the church? Do we give our attention each day first, and foremost to Christ and the Church, or are we distracted by the many “things” in a teen’s life?” While these people and items are not bad in themselves, the sum of them can distract us so that we lose sight of Christ.” We need to make a decision, and a plan, so that we are good stewards of our time, talent, and treasure.

INTRODUCTION:

[Have index cards available to the students. On the board write these categories: movie and music stars, athletes, fashion divas, “hot” items to own, anything you are devoting time and energy toward.] Look at the board. I’ve written some categories of people and things. Use an index card to write the name of, for example, a movie star you like. Use one index card per name. Keep them with you until I tell you. [Teacher should participate as well.]

CONTENT:

Last week we considered a fact that many people try to forget. Do you remember the title of the worksheet we used? “We are nothing, and have nothing, without God.”  This week we will consider all that God has given to us, and what our response should be. The key word for today’s lesson is “stewardship.”

Let’s pretend that all of us own a candy factory business together. What kind of candy shall we produce? [Write responses on the board.] In order to run efficiently, our business has some departments. Let’s name two of them, and make up a name of a person who is in charge of each of these departments. [Write responses on board.] Now let’s say that there is a possibility of opening a new plant in an area so all of us are chartering a flight to check out this lead. We give instructions to the two department heads, and we make sure that these two employees have all that they need to continue production, and then we depart for two weeks.

Two weeks go by. When we return, we ask for the two to come into the board room. To our dismay, we find that (name of first department head), has been lazy. He has slipped behind in his schedule. His employees are confused, and there is little to show for his department’s effort. He has no excuse to offer.

On the other hand when (name of second department head), gives his report, it is obvious that he has run an efficient department. He has exceeded the production schedule, and has even improved some of the candy. He offers to us the best of the production from his department.

And at this point the story will end. [Allow responses to:] As the Board of Directors, what might you say to each of them? Would you keep on the first department head?

What does the word “stewardship” have to do with the story? (The two department heads were stewards, or caretakers of their departments.)

Let’s switch to the present day. In God’s eyes, each of us is a steward. Of what are we stewards? (Our lives, and the earth.) When God gave Adam dominion over the earth, Adam, and by extension, all of us, are to be caretakers of creation. We are to be stewards of all God has entrusted to us. Remember, we are nothing and have nothing with God. It is all “on loan,” or “entrusted to our care.” We need to pay attention to three items in particular: our time, our talent, and our treasure. We need to return a portion of each to God.

When we offer our talent and our time to church, are we “giving” or “returning.” [Allow responses.] (We are returning, because all we have is Gods, we are just stewards.)

In our attempt to be good stewards, we can fail, if we lose sight of our goal. [Pass out the icon to each group.] Remember when we spoke about how much time, or money, we spend on what is written on these index cards? I want you to keep that in mind, and one by one, place your cards on the paper icon. [Allow a minute to do so.] I am sure you are all aware of the word “devil.” It’s meaning is “to dissipate, or create chaos.” When our life is pulled in so many directions, it is easy to lose sight of Christ. We, like Peter, can begin to drown. I think we all want to be good stewards in Christ’s. We need to make a plan to put Christ, and His Church, at the top of our “life list.” We need to be good stewards of our time, talent, and treasure; and of our whole lives.

CLOSING:

St. Nicholas was a very good steward. He had a lot of money from his family, and he gave it to poor people to help them out. We are good stewards when we use our talents in church. Think about your particular talent—how can you give back to God in the Church? We are also good stewards when we bring an offering of what we have to God. St. Nicholas is on our doorknob reminder for this week.
 

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

Lesson 3: “We Obey God”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will be able to cite Abraham and Jacob as two figures who began the tithing tradition.

TIME:  10 minutes

MATERIALS NEEDED:

At least 3 Bibles, marked at 1) Genesis 14:17-20, 2) Genesis 28:10-22, 3) Leviticus 27:30-32 and 4) Malachi 3:6-10.

Chalkboard and chalk or large paper and markers

FOR THE CATECHIST:

The lesson provides some of the many scriptural passages where tithing is mentioned. It is a tradition that began with Abraham, and was given to Moses as one of the laws of the covenant. While some may say that tithing is a Protestant development, the scriptures make it clear that it is our tradition, and our law as God’s people.

INTRODUCTION:

Our first lesson’s key word, or spiritual quality to develop, was trust. The last lesson’s key word was stewardship. Any idea what the key word for this lesson is?

CONTENT:

What is the first book in the Bible? (Genesis) In the book of Genesis we learn about the beginnings of creation, humankind, evil, to name a few concepts. We meet Adam, Eve, Noah, and Abraham, and others. Abraham is our person to learn about today. After the fall from Paradise, God wanted to create a people into which His Son would be born. He began by calling Abram out of Ur. He promised him that he would be the father of a people who would be more numerous than the stars. Although this sounded to good to be true, Abram and his people followed God on a journey. Abram was obedient to God.

In another story, Abraham was asked to bring his son Isaac up to the top of a mountain, and then to slay him. This was almost unbearable to think about, but Abraham was obedient. God stayed his hand before he could harm Isaac. Abraham is a model of obedience.

During their journey, Abram and his people run into the people of a place called Chedorlaomer. Abraham’s family conquers the opposition, and bring the livestock and other riches back with them from the battle. A mysterious figure appears, Melchizedek, and Abraham recognizes him as a priest of God. Let’s listen to what happens.

[Have a student read Genesis 14:17-20.] What did the priest offer Abraham? (A blessing, bread, and wine) What did Abraham do in return? (Offered a tithe, or tenth of all he had.)  So begins the understanding that the proper worship of God involves returning 1/10 of all we earn and receive. [Write on the board: “We learn tithing from: Abraham.” Leave room for three other names.]

[To make sure the students can easily figure a tenth, put a few examples on the board.]

[Make three groups of students, and give each a Bible. Assign each one passage to read together, paraphrase to the class, and read aloud the verse that has the word “tithe” in it. 1) Genesis 28:10-22, 2) Leviticus 27:30-32 and 34. 3) Malachi 3:6-10.]

[As the students report, write on the board for each as noted. Write: “Jacob” on the list. Preface the first report with:] The first reading is from the book of Genesis, which tells the beginnings of God’s people. Jacob is Abraham’s grandson.

[Write: “Moses.” Preface the second with:] The book of Leviticus tells the laws that God’s people are to keep.

[Write: “Prophets.” Preface the third with:] The book of Malachi is a book of prophecy. The job of the prophet was to call God’s people back to the covenant—back to the obligations to God.

Just as the people of God have tithed from the beginning, so we continue. Who are the two that began the tradition? (Abraham and Jacob)

We are to determine 1/10 of all we receive and earn, keeping in mind that all belongs to God, we are just returning what is due Him. I challenge each of you to bring a tithe next week, for our box.

CLOSING:

Obedience is our key word this week. Abraham was obedient to God long before the passage on tithing. He was both obedient and trusting. He knew that God was God, and he was man. He knew that it was only right to return to God what God had given him. Abraham is our exemplar of obedience.

 

TO TITHE IS TO LOVE

2004

 

Lesson 4: “All Our Life Unto Christ Our God”

OBJECTIVE:

The students will review the mandate to tithe and add to it the understanding of tithing from the first fruits. The students will be able to explain that the Greatest Commandment is Christ’s measure for how much we are to dedicate to God—namely ourselves, in totality.

TIME:  10 minutes

MATERIALS:

Bible marked at Matthew 23:23, and Luke 10:27.

FOR THE CATECHIST:

In this final lesson all the qualities discussed earlier are brought together. The students are taken one step further with the concept of offering their entire lives to Christ. They are challenged to offer a tithe of all they will receive for graduation, in an act of solidarity with God whom they will be calling on to guide them in their college and adult lives.

INTRODUCTION:

Our key words thus far have been: trust, stewardship, and obedience. Last week we learned that tithing is the measure of proper worship of God. Who began the tradition? Did God ever dictate it? (Yes, to Moses in the book of Leviticus). So begins the understanding that the proper worship of God involves returning 1/10 of all we earn and receive. Do most people think of the words “proper worship” and “money” in the same phrase? [Allow responses.] What is our key to understanding these together? Let’s explore other words that tell about the money we give. [Write responses on board. The words that are best are “offering” or “returning.”]

CONTENT:

If you recall our first lesson, we discussed humility as realizing that we are nothing without God. In the second lesson we learned that we are “stewards” of what God gives us—not owners. In the third lesson we learned that we are to return to God 1/10 of what he gives us. “Return” is a good word to describe why we bring money to church. The word “offering” is even better.” What is the difference? [Allow responses.] Offering includes the idea of humility. We hope that what we offer will be pleasing to God.

In some of the passages from the Old Testament last week, the phrase “first-fruits” came up. In the story of the two department heads, the good steward offered the owners the best of what had been produced. First-fruits are the best. Today we speak of “seconds” or ‘second-hand” as not the best, so the concept is still around. What does that mean for tithing? If any of you are aware of “payroll deduction,” you

know the idea of first-fruit. Let’s say you get a paycheck of $100 each week. Before you do anything else with that money, you make out a check for $10 to the church.

It is easier to do that than to try and find $10 left at the end of the week. Also, it shows God where your priorities are.

Although it may seem hard, God never, ever asks of us what is not for our own good. It may not seem so at the time, but if we follow God’s commandments, we will discover why He has asked for our obedience. It will be for our own good.

In a few years, or months, you will be done with high school. You will have decisions to make about your life direction. You will pray, and trust God to be there for you to guide you and help you. Begin now to honor God in your life, by following His commandment to offer a tithe, of your earnings, and of what you will receive, especially when you graduate. I think you will find that by putting your tithe aside for God, you will think of God more often, and he will honor your attention with His presence in your life.

Did Jesus ever speak about tithing? [Allow responses, if time permits.]

Indirectly, He did. Have a student read Matthew 23:23. Jesus is denouncing the Pharisees for only paying attention to the outward observance of the law without matching it with a right heart. Notice how he tells them to pay attention to the spiritual while not neglecting to tithe.

Most importantly, Jesus repeated the Greatest Commandment that was given to God’s people in the Old Testament. Do any of you know the Greatest Commandment? Let’s hear it in this passage.

[Have student read Luke 10:27]. Does God ask us for a tithe of our heart, our mind, our soul, and our strength?

Rather, we are to understand in this passage, and others such as, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God,” (Matthew 6:32-33) that God wants our total allegiance, and love God is to be not only our first priority, but the very life within us, through His Holy Spirit. God wants us to offer ourselves to Him. God wants us to be His hands, and His heart in the world. Together, as church, through the Holy Spirit, we are God’s hands and heart.

As you know you will need to trust God for the big things soon, begin now, one day at a time. Ask, “What would YOU like me to do this day, Lord?” Find a quiet place to pray this each morning, and hopefully also read a few passages from scripture. We are “God’s team” in the world.

CLOSING:

Our exemplar for giving oneself to God is St. Thekla. She heard St. Paul speak about Jesus, and decided to travel spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. This was very dangerous work for a woman in those days. She gave her whole life to serving Jesus Christ. She is our exemplar of giving oneself to God. This is the end of this mini-unit. I hope you have been enriched, and challenged by what you have learned. We will continue bringing our offering to class each week, to place in the box.

Program Concepts, Scriptures for Year One

To Tithe is to Love

Campaign of Advent 2004

 

Concepts Used in Year One Program

(Excerpt from Report: “Comprehensive Formation of Children in Regard to Tithing”)

 

 

Aspects	Pre-school	K-1	2-3	4-5	Middle School	High School	Notes
Personal Spirituality
1b) We serve God by offering time and talent.		We learn that giving of our time is a way to serve God, for example, through helping out at church by opening doors, or even smiling at our brothers and sisters.	We learn that loving God must be realized in actions. We learn in the Story of the Talents (Matthew 25:15) that God wants us to use what he has given us. We identify one gift or talent that God has given us, and how we use that talent for the good of others.	We read in the Story of the Talents (Matthew 25:15) that we are to use what God has given us for His kingdom. We consider what our talents are, perhaps helping with serving, sending cards to the sick, putting money aside for special collections.	We discuss how we are better able to identify our talents, and equipped to make a big difference by our offering of time and talent. We pinpoint ways we can offer our talents individually, and as a group, for the betterment of the church.	We identify ways we are presently serving in the Church, and in the world, and discuss what the future might hold as we assume adulthood. Vocations are discussed, and ways of offering time and talent are identified for those who may be priests, monks, or nuns, and those who will marry, or possibly be single for a long period.

 

 

1c) We serve God by tithing.

We recall that all we have comes from God, and we need to show God we love Him by sharing what we receive, with Him through the Church. We learn that we are to share something with God each week at the collection.

We recall that all we have comes from God, and we need to show God we love Him by sharing what we receive, with Him through the Church. We learn that we are to share something with God each week at the collection. We consider how good we feel when we contribute to Church.

We learn in the story of Moses after the Exodus (Lev 27:21-6) that Moses gave the first fruits in thanksgiving to God for salvation.   We learn that we our gifts at birthdays, and at Christmas are to be shared with God. We consider how we want to please God for all He has given us, and we bring in money for the collection each week, and after special occasions when we receive monetary gifts.

We read that Abram, in thanksgiving for his victory over Chedorlaoner, gave a tithe of all he had. (Genesis 14:17-20). We read that Jacob, Abraham’s grandson, had a vision from God. When he heard all that God would do for him, he made a vow to tithe from all God would give him. (Genesis 28:22). In the New Testament we read that Jesus said “Seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:32-33), and we read and consider how the story of the Widow’s Mite exemplifies the teaching (Luke 21:3). We consider how we can seek first the Kingdom, and how offering a tithe is essential to our seeking. We learn how to determine 1/10. We challenge ourselves to obey God’s word.

We realize that there is a great temptation to acquire material things, and that we can be owned by our possessions. We learn that God has given us a direct teaching through the words of Jesus, “No one can serve two masters . . .” (Matthew 6:24). We analyze how our society drives us to have more, as if that will make us popular. We review several the scriptures that show God desires a tithe, (Genesis 14:17-20, and 28:22, Lev 27:21-16, Numbers 18:21-26). In the New Testament we read that Jesus said “Seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:32-33), and how tithing is essential to placing God first in our lives. We consider how we are called to be stewards as we read from Malachi 3:10 about bringing full tithes and trusting God. We read the story of Ananias and Sapphira (     ………..)  We review how to determine 1/10. We challenge ourselves to do that from the gift, work or allowance money we receive.

We realize that there is a great temptation to acquire material things, and that we can be owned by our possessions. We learn that God has given us a direct teaching through the words of Jesus, “No one can serve two masters . . .” (Matthew 6:24). We analyze how our society drives us to have more, as if that will make us popular. In the New Testament we read that Jesus said “Seek first the kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:32-33), and how tithing is essential to placing God first in our lives. We consider how we are called to be stewards as we read from Malachi 3:10 about bringing full tithes and trusting God.  We review how to determine 1/10. We challenge ourselves to do that from the money we receive from work or allowance. We relate trust, servanthood, and thankfulness to tithing. We discuss how tithing enriches our spiritual life. We prepare to tithe from graduation gifts. We think about how we will need to pray, and trust  God, as we venture forth to college, jobs, and to finding a spouse.

Letter 2004

November 2004

Dear Pastors and Church School Directors,

With joy we have begun the Nativity Fast, emptying ourselves and slowing down our lives, so that we may truly appreciate the great gift of God’s Son. Coinciding with the Fast, is the new program, "To Tithe is To Love." With the delayed mailing, (see note below) you may choose to begin the program after the first of the year. As pastor, you may wish to look over the lessons for this year, in particular the scriptural references, should you desire to preach on tithing.

Knowing that all we have is from God, we worship and thank God by returning a portion to Him. The offering of 1/10, a "tithe," of what we earn and receive, has been our tradition beginning with Abraham, as noted in the following passage from scripture:

When Abram returned from his victory over Chedorlaomer and the kings who were allied with him, the king of Salem went out to greet him in the Valley of Shaveh (that is, the King’s Valley). Melchizedek, king of Salem, brought out bread and wine, and being a pirest of God Most High, he blessed Abram: "Blessed be Abram by God Most High, the creator of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most high, who delivered your foes into your hand."

Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything

It is time for tithing to be taught to the children, and the faithful of our Archdiocese. "To Tithe is to Love" is a program that will take place each Nativity Fast in every Church School for the next five years. It is in addition to, not replacing, the "Food For the Hungry" campaign. After five years, the new texts will be available with tithing integrated into the lesson plans. Although the lessons are taught during the Fast, the children are to continue bringing in their offerings each week.

On the following page you will find the details of the program. A key component of the program is the offering box. Each class will need a shoebox with its lid covered with the poster artwork of the program (provided). The children are instructed to bring in an offering each week (their envelopes if your parish has these), to be placed in the box. The class, or their representative, is to bring the box to the church either following class, or the next Sunday. You will need to decide how you want to handle this, such as who will greet them to receive their boxes. The children are to continue this procedure for the entire school year.

God does not ask of us anything that is not for our own good. I am excited about this program and the chance for the children to grow in spiritual maturity. Please contact the Department if we can be of assistance in any way, or if you need more materials. There is a brief evaluation page for the Church School Director, for his or her observations.

In Christ,

Carole A. Buleza

(Genesis 14;17-20).

Sample of doorknob hangers that are being sent

Here is a sample of the doorknob hangers that are being sent:  Download PDF