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Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

The “Together We’re Better” lesson plan is designed to help young people learn how to support each other in living out their faith. It emphasizes the importance of loving correction and the role it plays in our spiritual growth. This plan encourages open and honest conversations about our struggles and helps us understand how to approach these discussions with kindness and care.

Youth can benefit greatly from this plan by learning how to address sensitive topics with friends in a loving and supportive way. It teaches that pointing out someone’s faults isn’t about judgment, but about caring for their well-being. This approach helps build stronger friendships and fosters a community where everyone feels safe and supported.

The lesson also highlights the importance of prayer and spiritual support. By praying for each other, we invite God into our friendships and ask for His guidance. This spiritual support is crucial in helping us grow together and overcome challenges.

Overall, the “Together We’re Better” plan provides practical tools for youth to help each other live better, more faithful lives. It shows that caring correction, when done with love, is a vital part of Christian friendship.

Opening Game for the Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

Team Towers

Objective: To illustrate the importance of teamwork, communication, and support in a fun and engaging way.

Materials Needed:

  • Plastic cups or building blocks (enough for each team to build a tower)
  • A small prize for the winning team (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Divide the Group into Teams: Split the participants into small groups of 3-4 people.
  2. Explain the Task: Each team will work together to build the tallest tower possible using the cups or blocks provided. They have 5 minutes to complete the task.
  3. Add a Twist: To make the game more challenging, add a rule that only one person can touch the cups or blocks at a time. The rest of the team can give instructions, but they cannot touch the materials.
  4. Start Building: Set a timer for 5 minutes. During this time, teams must communicate and collaborate effectively to build their towers.
  5. Measure and Discuss: When time is up, measure the towers to see which team built the tallest one. Congratulate the winning team. Then, have a brief discussion about the challenges they faced, the importance of teamwork, and how they had to rely on each other.

Debrief:

  • Discuss how the game relates to the lesson’s theme of being “Together We’re Better.” Highlight how teamwork, communication, and support were key to success.
  • Connect the experience to the lesson’s focus on helping and supporting each other in faith. Just as the teams needed to work together to build the tower, we need each other’s support to grow in our faith and address challenges.

This game sets a fun and interactive tone for the lesson while reinforcing the key message of the importance of community and support.

Scripture Reading for the Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

Next invite everyone get comfortable. After a little warm up discussion about how everyone’s week has been, ask this question

  • Imagine your friend had a fork and was going to put it in an electrical socket. What would your reaction be?
  • Would you try to stop your friend? Why or why not?
  • If you didn’t stop your friend and he or she got hurt, would you feel at all responsible?

Now read Matthew 18:15-20 – the Gospel for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A.

Jesus said to his disciples:
“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother. If he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, so that ‘every fact may be established on the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ If he refuses to listen to them, tell the church. If he refuses to listen even to the church, then treat him as you would a Gentile or a tax collector.

Amen, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

Again, amen, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

Discussion for the Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

Jesus doesn’t mean we need to point out every little sin. If we did, people might avoid us. However, some sins can cause serious harm, physically or spiritually. It’s not always easy to see this harm when we’re caught up in it ourselves.

Let’s think about some sins that cause physical harm, like alcohol abuse or inappropriate dating behavior. Then there are sins that can hurt us spiritually, such as not going to Mass or harboring prejudice.

Jesus suggests we first try to help our friends on our own. If that doesn’t work, we can ask for help from someone else, like another friend, a priest, or a youth minister.

It’s also important not to be judgmental when talking about sin. There’s a right and a wrong way to approach these conversations. First, we should remember that we’re all sinners. Second, we should speak with genuine love and care.

To understand this better, let’s role-play.

Pick a “sin” that they should talk to one of the volunteers about. It can be something mentioned above, or you can choose something silly., like their favorite food. First have them demonstrate the “wrong” way. Instruct them to be really judgmental and harsh.

Now have your core team (or volunteers you can trust) demonstrate the “right” way. Have them be loving and caring. They should truly show concern for the ”sinner’s” well being.

Which approach felt better? Which would you respond to more positively?

Another important thing Jesus tells us is to pray. Don’t just talk to your friend about their mistakes; pray for them too.

Now, let’s discuss the Spiritual Works of Mercy. These are actions we can take to help others with their spiritual needs. They guide us in living out our faith by supporting and uplifting those around us. They also help us be a positive influence, especially when others face difficulties or need guidance.

One work is to instruct the ignorant. This means teaching others about the faith or helping them understand something they don’t know. For instance, if a friend is curious about why we go to Mass, we can explain the importance of the Eucharist and gathering as a community. It’s not about showing off knowledge, but helping others grow in understanding.

Another is to counsel the doubtful. People often struggle with their beliefs or decisions. They may not know what is right or wrong. Offering guidance and support during these times is a way to live out this work of mercy. It could be as simple as listening to a friend’s concerns and encouraging them to pray or seek advice from a trusted adult.

Admonish the sinner means helping someone recognize and correct their mistakes. It’s similar to pointing out faults but done with love and care. The goal is to help them see how their actions might be harmful and encourage better choices. It’s not about judging but guiding them toward a better path.

Comfort the afflicted involves offering support to those who are suffering. This could be emotional, physical, or spiritual suffering. Being there for someone during tough times, praying with them, or just listening shows God’s love. It helps them feel less alone and valued.

Forgive offenses willingly means letting go of grudges and being willing to forgive those who have wronged us. This can be challenging, but it is crucial for our own peace and healing relationships. Remembering that we all make mistakes and that God is always ready to forgive us helps us be more forgiving towards others.

Another important Spiritual Work of Mercy is to bear wrongs patiently. This means enduring injustices or mistreatment without anger or revenge. It’s about keeping a calm and forgiving attitude even when others treat us unfairly. This can be very challenging, but it teaches us humility and patience. By responding with patience, we avoid escalating conflicts and demonstrate a Christ-like love and understanding.

Lastly, pray for the living and the dead. Prayer is a powerful way to support others, whether they are alive or have passed away. We can pray for friends and family, for those struggling, and for souls in purgatory. This reminds us of the importance of prayer and our connection with the Church community.

By practicing these Spiritual Works of Mercy, we truly live out the idea that “Together We’re Better.” These actions help us be a light to others, supporting and guiding them in their faith journey. They remind us that we are all part of a larger community, and our actions can positively impact those around us.

Small Group Reflection Questions for the Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

Break into small groups for discussion. This is a time to share thoughts and learn from each other. Here are some suggested questions to guide your conversation:

  • Have you ever needed to correct a friend? How did you approach the situation? What was the outcome? How did you feel afterward?
  • How do you feel when someone corrects you? Do you feel grateful, defensive, or something else? How can the way they approach you affect your response?
  • Think about the Spiritual Works of Mercy we discussed. Which one do you find the most challenging? Why? How can you practice this work of mercy in your daily life?

Encourage everyone to share their thoughts and experiences. Remember, this is a safe space for open and respectful discussion. Listen carefully and offer support to each other. The goal is to learn and grow together in faith.

Challenge for the Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

This week, try to put what we’ve learned into practice. Think about one of the Spiritual Works of Mercy we discussed. Choose one that you find most meaningful or challenging. For example, you might decide to forgive someone you’ve been holding a grudge against, or offer comfort to a friend going through a tough time. Make a plan to act on it and follow through. Remember, the goal is not just to do the act, but to do it with love and compassion, reflecting the love of Jesus.

Share your experience with a friend or a trusted adult. Talk about how it felt to step out of your comfort zone and make a positive impact. Reflect on what you learned and how it changed your perspective. By sharing, you encourage others to take similar steps and remind them that together we’re better at living out our faith. This is a great way to strengthen our community and grow closer to God.

Prayer for the Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

Heavenly Father,
We thank You for bringing us together to learn and grow in our faith. Help us to put into practice the Spiritual Works of Mercy, showing kindness, forgiveness, and love to those around us. Give us the courage to gently correct each other and to receive correction with humility. May we always seek to comfort and support one another, remembering that together we’re better in Your love. Guide us as we go forth, and help us to live out these teachings every day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

More Resources for the Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

Themes for the Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

  • Loving Correction: Helping others see their faults is an act of love. It shows care for their well-being. We do this to help them grow closer to God.
  • Community Support: We are called to support one another in our faith journey. This lesson teaches us to offer help and guidance. It strengthens our community by fostering trust and love.
  • Avoiding Judgment: We must approach others with humility, knowing we are all sinners. This means correcting with kindness, not harshness. Our goal is to help, not to judge.
  • Spiritual Growth: Recognizing and addressing sins helps us grow spiritually. It leads us to repentance and a closer relationship with God. This is a key part of living a faithful life.
  • Prayer and Support: Praying for others is a powerful way to show love and support. It invites God’s grace into our lives. Prayer helps us seek guidance and strength for ourselves and others.
  • Building Trust: Honest and loving communication builds trust among friends. This trust is essential for a strong Christian community. It allows us to share and grow together.
  • Responsibility to Others: We have a duty to help our friends avoid harm. This includes pointing out harmful behaviors. It is an act of love and responsibility.
  • Forgiveness and Mercy: We must be ready to forgive those who hurt us. This mirrors God’s mercy towards us. It helps us live in peace and unity.
  • Living the Gospel: The lesson encourages us to live out the teachings of Jesus. This includes loving others and helping them grow in faith. It’s about putting the Gospel into action.
  • Respect and Dignity: We should always treat others with respect and dignity. This means addressing issues in a caring and respectful way. It honors the worth of every person.
  • Encouraging Goodness: We can encourage good behaviors in others. This helps them grow in virtue. It’s about supporting positive changes and growth.

Background Material for the Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

The “Together We’re Better” lesson plan is deeply rooted in Catholic teaching and tradition. It emphasizes the importance of community, mutual support, and loving correction within the Church. In Matthew 18:15-20, Jesus teaches us how to handle situations when someone sins against us. He instructs us to first address the issue privately with the person. If that doesn’t work, we should involve one or two others, and if necessary, bring it to the Church. This passage underscores the importance of addressing sin in a loving and constructive manner, showing that together we’re better at helping each other grow in holiness.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church also speaks to the need for fraternal correction. It says, “Conversion is accomplished in daily life by gestures of reconciliation, concern for the poor, the exercise and defense of justice and right, by the admission of faults to one’s brethren, fraternal correction, revision of life, examination of conscience, spiritual direction, acceptance of suffering, endurance of persecution for the sake of righteousness.” (CCC 1435). This means that we all have a role in helping our brothers and sisters in Christ avoid sin and grow in virtue. It’s a communal responsibility, reminding us that together we’re better at supporting each other’s spiritual journey.

Saint Paul also talks about this in his letters. In Galatians 6:1, he advises, “Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently.” This verse highlights the importance of gentleness and care when addressing the sins of others. It’s not about judgment or condemnation, but about helping each other out of love. When we correct others with love, we reflect God’s mercy and compassion.

The “Together We’re Better” lesson plan also aligns with the Spiritual Works of Mercy, which include instructing the ignorant, counseling the doubtful, and admonishing sinners. These acts of mercy are ways we can show love and concern for the spiritual well-being of others. By addressing sin and encouraging repentance, we help others find their way back to God’s grace. Together we’re better at guiding each other towards a deeper faith and a more Christ-like life.

Another important aspect of this lesson plan is the emphasis on prayer. Prayer is essential in the process of correction and guidance. It invites God’s presence and grace into our efforts, ensuring that we act with love and humility. The Catechism states, “Prayer is the life of the new heart. It ought to animate us at every moment” (CCC 2697). By praying for each other, we strengthen our bonds and support one another spiritually.

In conclusion, the “Together We’re Better” lesson plan is a practical application of Catholic teaching on community, correction, and spiritual support. It reminds us that we are all responsible for helping each other grow in faith and avoid sin. By approaching these situations with love, prayer, and humility, we can build a stronger and more compassionate community. Together we’re better at living out our faith and supporting each other in our journey towards holiness.

Music Suggestions for the Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

More Youth Ministry Lesson Plans and Reflections

Teachers, youth ministers, and catechists can find more “Together We’re Better” lesson plans and reflections for free on our website. These resources are great for guiding youth in living out their faith and supporting each other. Visit our lesson plan page to access these helpful materials and enrich your ministry.

Questions and Answers for the Together We’re Better Lesson Plan

What is the main goal of the “Together We’re Better” lesson plan?

    The main goal is to help youth understand the importance of loving correction and support in friendships. It teaches how to address sins and mistakes in a kind and caring way, helping each other grow in faith.

    Why is it important to point out someone’s faults?

      It is important because it helps prevent harm, both physically and spiritually. By addressing issues, we can help friends make better choices and grow closer to God.

      How should we approach someone about their faults?

        We should approach them with love and kindness. It’s important to be gentle and understanding, not judgmental. We should also remember that we are all sinners and should act with humility.

        What if the person doesn’t listen or change?

          If they don’t listen, we can involve a trusted friend or adult to help. We can also pray for them and continue to offer support. The goal is to help, not to force change.

          Isn’t it judgmental to point out someone’s sins?

            Pointing out sins can be done in a non-judgmental way. The key is to focus on love and concern for the person’s well-being. It’s not about judging, but about helping them avoid harm and grow spiritually.

            How does this “Together We’re Better” lesson plan relate to Catholic teachings?

              This lesson plan is based on the teachings of Jesus and the Catholic Church. It aligns with the Bible, the Catechism, and the Spiritual Works of Mercy, which all encourage helping others grow in faith.

              What role does prayer play in this “Together We’re Better” lesson plan?

                Prayer is essential. It helps us seek God’s guidance and support for ourselves and others. Praying for someone shows our love and concern for their spiritual well-being.

                Can this “Together We’re Better” lesson plan be used for all ages?

                  Yes, it can be adapted for different age groups. The key concepts of loving correction, support, and prayer are universal and can be taught to youth of all ages.

                  How can we create a supportive environment using this “Together We’re Better” lesson plan?

                    By fostering open and honest communication, encouraging kindness and respect, and emphasizing the importance of community. It’s about building trust and showing that together we’re better at facing challenges and growing in faith.

                    What should we do if we’re afraid to confront a friend about their behavior?

                    It’s natural to feel nervous, but remember that your intention is to help. Pray for courage and wisdom. You can also seek advice from a trusted adult or friend to approach the situation in the best way possible.

                    Conclusion

                    The “Together We’re Better” lesson plan is designed to teach young people the importance of loving correction and support in their friendships and community. It is based on the teachings of Jesus and the Catholic Church, emphasizing the value of addressing sins and mistakes with kindness and care. The lesson plan helps youth understand that pointing out faults is not about judgment but about helping each other avoid harm and grow in faith.

                    One key aspect of the lesson plan is teaching how to approach sensitive topics with love and humility. It encourages open and honest conversations where friends can address issues without fear of judgment. By doing so, the plan fosters a supportive environment where everyone feels safe and valued. The lesson also stresses the importance of prayer, reminding us that asking for God’s guidance is crucial in these situations.

                    The “Together We’re Better” lesson plan also aligns with the Spiritual Works of Mercy, which include admonishing sinners and instructing the ignorant. It shows that by helping others recognize and overcome their faults, we are participating in these acts of mercy. The plan encourages youth to support each other not only emotionally but also spiritually, reinforcing the idea that together we’re better at navigating life’s challenges.

                    Your Turn

                    Try the “Together We’re Better” lesson plan in your group and see how it fosters open, supportive conversations. This plan is a great way to help youth learn the importance of loving correction and prayer. We encourage you to share your experiences and any variations you tried in the comments section. Your feedback can help others see that together we’re better at growing in faith and building a strong, compassionate community.

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