LESSON 31

 

Opening Prayer

Last Class: May 6: Holy Orders

 

SURVIVAL SKILLS FOR CATHOLIC CHRISTIANS

 

The most basic requirement for survival is Sunday Mass. God in His infinite wisdom knew that we need to touch bases with Him at least once a week, so he included this weekly get together in the Commandments. This requirement also establishes the first pillar (the Eucharist) which supports our lives as Catholic Christians. Of course, daily attendance at Mass would be even better, but here we are only speaking of survival. Being properly prepared to receive the Eucharist when we attend Mass requires going to Confession (Reconciliation). The Catholic Church requires reconciliation at least once a year. Of course, we need to go whenever we have committed a mortal sin. Many recommend going to Confession once a month.

 

The second pillar which supports our lives as Catholic Christians is devotion to Mary. The best way to honor Mary is to say the rosary, daily if possible. Wearing a scapular or medal which honors Mary and her son, Jesus, is good way to express devotion.

 

DAILY: Mass (or readings) and Rosary

 

Morning Prayer: _________________________________________________________

 

Morning Offering: O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer you my prayers, works, joys, and sufferings of this day for all the intentions of your Sacred Heart, in union with the holy sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world, in thanksgiving for your favors, in reparation for my sins, for the intentions of all my relatives and friends, and in particular for the intentions of the Holy Father. Amen

 

Prayer before and after Meals

 

Before:  Bless us, O Lord, and these your gifts, which we are about to receive from your bounty, through Christ our Lord. Amen

After:  We give you thanks, almighty God, for all your benefits, who live and reign for ever and ever. Amen.

May the Lord grant us his peace, and life everlasting. Amen

 

Evening Prayer: __________________________________________________________

 

Spiritual Reading (Scripture or other)

 

Daily Mass

 

Liturgy of the Hours

 

Chaplet of Divine Mercy

 

 

WEEKLY (Love God & Neighbor)

 

Mass

 

 

Ministry

 

 

Adoration

 

 

 

MONTHLY

 

Reconciliation

 

Adoration or visit

 

 

YEARLY

 

Retreat (men, women, couples, special)

 

 

OTHER

 

Avoid occasions of sin (from experience)

 

Monitor input carefully (radio, television, movies, friends)

 

Catholic friends

 

EWTN

 

Catholic Radio (1620)

 

catholic.com

 

Constant prayer

 

Prayer book

 

Daily missal: Magnificat

 

Introduction to a saint’s life: St. Maximilian Kolbe

 

Final Prayer: Memorare: Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To you I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.