Catechetical Resources | Archdiocese of New York

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Looking for good catechetical resources? Looking for a good resource to support your ministry? Do you want to learn more about your faith? Browse through the topics to get started.

Catechetical Office Resources

This section contains numerous resources for download as a support to catechetical leaders and pastors by the Catechetical Office, including these frequently searched resources.

Handbooks

Administrative Handbook for Parish Directors and Coordinators of Religious Education (aka “the red book”)

Parent Handbook: Directors/Coordinators should use this template as the basis and model for the Parent Handbook of their Parish Religious Education program. Contact your regional office for the Handbook in MS Word Format.

Catechist Handbook: Directors/Coordinators should use this template as the basis and model for the Catechist Handbook of their Parish Religious Education program. Contact your regional office for the Handbook in MS Word Format.

Guidelines for Catechesis

Revised Guidelines for Catechesis /Directrices Catequéticas: the official guide to religious education in the Archdiocese of New York that details the religious education content to be taught at each grade level. Copyright, 1996, 2016, Archdiocese of New York, Department of Youth Faith Formation.

In English

En espanól

Administration Forms and Support

Catechist Forms

Catechist Application Form: a sample packet for directors and coordinators to give to prospective candidates to the ministry of a catechist.
Catechist Certification Applications: upon completion of the requirements, directors and coordinators submit this paperwork so that their catechists are awarded certification:
Catechist Job Description: ministry responsibilities for the catechist.
Observation/Evaluation of Parish Catechist’s Lesson: a form to help directors and coordinators as they observe and evaluate their catechists.
Applications to honor catechists at our annual service in November:
- Certificate of Appreciation Application: honoring those catechists who have served for 10, 15, 20, 25 etc. years in the catechetical ministry in the Archdiocese of New York.
- Application for Medal of Honor: honoring those catechists who have served for 30, 35, 40 or more years of service
- Application for Years of Service Awards (for those who have already received the Medal of Honor).

Program Resources

Crisis Management Plan Report: each year directors and coordinators are responsible for developing an emergency plan.
- Crisis Management Plan Report: download for printing and to fill out with a pen or typewriter.
- Crisis Management Plan Report: MS Word format.
Guide to Formation for Parish Catechetical Leaders and Catechists: a handbook explaining the various formation programs offered by the Catechetical Office for catechetical leaders and catechists.
Models for Parish Religious Education: helping our parishes effectively form young people and their families for discipleship as part of the Catholic church using diverse models of program organization.
Monthly Checklist for Directors/Coordinators: a handy list of monthly reminders to help directors and coordinators keep on top of their program responsibilities.
Opting out of Public School Mandated Sex Education: help for parents who wish to know more about how to opt their children out of public school sex education.
Whatever Happened to CCD?: a brief history of the catechetical ministry.
- English: PDF Format
- Qué Sucedió Con CCD?: PDF Format

Program Forms

Attendance Register: prints on 11″ x 17″ paper.
Bus Companies: please check with the Archdiocesan insurance office for an updated list. 646-794-3024.
Child Information Record: Registration Form in English and in Spanish for use when registering children into the Parish Religious Education program. In MS Word format, so the Director/Coordinator can make the changes necessary for the individual parish program, always with the permission of the Pastor.
Family File (The Pink Card): prints on 5″x8″ file cards; they will be off-center on 8.5″x11″ paper.
Media Authorization Form: form used to obtain the permission of parents/guardians so that images (e.g. pictures, videotape) of the children in their programs may be taken/used. En espanól: Permiso de Medios de Communicación
Order form for Catechetical Supplies: order Attendance Registers, Family File Cards, Permanent Record Cards, Released Time Cards, Progress Reports and Catechetical Personnel Application.
Permanent Record Cards (The Yellow Card): prints on 5″x8″ file cards; they will be off-center on 8.5″x11″ paper.
Progress Reports: printable report for use in the religious education program.
Safe Environment Forms: all forms are available from the Archdiocesan Safe Environment Office.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation Guidelines for Directors and Coordinators of Religious Education: the salary of the Lay Director or Coordinator of Religious Education is determined according to the Compensation Guidelines, approved by the Presbyteral Council and published by the Catechetical Office.
Health, Life and Disability Benefits for Directors and Coordinators of Religious Education: in negotiating salary and benefits with the Pastor, the Director/Coordinator may inquire about the benefits listed in this document.
Agreement of Employment for Lay Directors/Coordinators of Religious Education: the position of the Parish Director/Coordinator of Religious Education is a professional position and therefore, the Director/Coordinator is a “salaried employee” not an “hourly employee.”
Application for a Director/Coordinator of Religious Education: the application to be filled out by a new director/coordinator and submitted to the Catechetical Office.

Pastor’s Resources

Pastors Guide a downloadable guide for pastors in helping in the selection and hiring of the parish director/coordinator of Religious Education.
Compensation Guidelines for Directors and Coordinators of Religious Education: a downloadable copy of salary scale of Directors and Coordinators of Religious Education.
Health, Life and Disability Benefits for Directors and Coordinators of Religious Education: a download copy of benefits of Directors and Coordinators of Religious Education.
Agreement of Employment for Lay Directors/Coordinators of Religious Education: a downloadable copy of an agreement of Lay Directors /Coordinators of Religious Education.
The Catechist in the Third Millennium: a download of the October 2012 statement of the Catholic Bishops of New York State supporting quality catechetical leadership in our changing parishes and world.

Biblical Resources

Online Bibles

BibleGateway.com: This website enables you to search various versions of the Bible by passage, keyword or phrase.
Biblia Clerus: This website program, which also can be downloaded to your computer, is provided by the Vatican Office of the Congregation of the Clergy and offers Sacred Scripture, its interpretation in light of Sacred Tradition and the teachings of the Magisterium, with appropriate theological commentary and exegesis.
Codex Sinaiticus: the oldest Bible manuscript is available online.
Douay-Rheims Bible: A 17th-century translation of the Bible in English. This online tool is searchable by word or phrase.
Faith Comes by Hearing: offers the world’s largest catalog of Audio Bibles in over 700+ language. Mobile app available.
Gospel Parallels: A comparison of the four gospels. A great study tool when looking for similarities and differences in the Gospel accounts.
New American Bible Revised: An online version of the New American Bible, revised edition, from the USCCB. This version is used for the readings at Mass.
The Truth and Life Bible App: A free dramatized audio Bible app includes the entire RSV-CE Bible and Gospel of Mark audio.

Bible Programs

Little Rock Scripture Study: Develops and distributes Bible study materials for adult Catholics in parishes and small faith communities who want to continue on their journey of faith.
New York Catholic Bible School: Offers adults the scriptural foundations of our Catholic faith. The Bible School, sponsored by the Catechetical Office, meets each year for three trimesters. A trimester is comprised of 10 sessions.
University of Dallas Catholic Biblical School: Rigorous, scholarly and in conformity with the best of Catholic biblical tradition. The program is split into 12 modules over 4 years, and designed to fit into various schedules, with both online and onsite options.

Biblical Resources

Church Documents on Scripture

Divino Afflante Spiritu: Encyclical of Pope Pius XII encouraging Biblical studies
Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation (Dei Verbum): This document of Vatican II teaches about how God reveals himself to us. Holy Scripture plays a major role in revelation.
Instruction Concerning the Historical Truth of the Gospels: Pontifical Biblical Commission’s 1964 document on the distinction of the three stages of tradition in the Gospels. Translated by Joseph Fitzmyer, SJ.
The Interpretation of the Bible in the Church: presented by the Pontifical Biblical Commission to Pope John Paul II on the interpretation and use of the Bible in the Church.(April 23, 1993).

Biblical Associations

American Bible Society: Society dedicated to ensuring that people who need Bibles receive them. ABS has many scripture-related materials.
Catholic Biblical Association: Society of biblical scholars who promote, within a context of faith, scholarly study in Scripture.

Other Resources

Concordance of the Bible: simplifies looking for a word or phrase from scripture by using this tool.
Dead Sea Scrolls Digital Project: The Israel Museum allows Internet users to examine and explore these most ancient manuscripts from Second Temple. Developed in partnership with Google, the website gives users access to searchable, fast-loading, high-resolution images of the scrolls, as well as short explanatory videos and background information on the texts and their history.
How to Start and Sustain Parish Bible Study: a guide for parishes.
Virtual Tour of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre: a 360° tour with information about the history and layout of this ancient church.

Catechetical Leadership

Professional Associations:

Federation for Catechesis with Hispanics: approved by the NCCL Board to become the first federation in NCCL to serve those who minister in catechesis with Hispanics.
National Catholic Educational Association: a professional membership organization that provides leadership, direction, and service to fulfill the evangelizing, catechizing and teaching mission of the Church.
National Conference for Catechetical Leadership (NCCL): a Catholic association dedicated to advancing the Church’s teaching mission in the United States, especially by promoting excellence in catechetical leaders.
National Association for Lay Ministry: a professional organization that supports, educates and advocates for lay ministers and promotes the development of lay ministry in the Catholic Church.
The Diocesan Educational/Catechetical Leadership: designed for those leaders who serve the Bishops in Diocesan level roles as Vicar, Secretary of Education, Superintendent of Schools, and Directors/Staffs of Diocesan Office of Religious Education or other office staffs with a catechetical responsibility.

Blogs and Online Resources:

A Cyberpilgrim’s Blog: it’s about digital discipleship and how to transform ministry through technology.
Be My Disciples: find ways to help teachers, parents, catechists, and students articulate the gospel message so that others will better understand it. A ministry of RCL Benziger.
Relevant Catechesis: a blog designed to share insights and ideas for carrying out the work of catechesis in a Catholic Parish.
Catholic Education Resource Center: online source for information on Catholic faith and culture.
Finding Copyright-Free Images for Catechetical Use: understanding copyright issues for catechists and leaders, and where to find copyright-free images.
Formed: the Catholic faith on demand; provides streaming Catholic content for religious education programs and parishes.
Handing on the Faith: a catechetical blog by Ms. Maureen McKew, Director of Communications for the Catechetical Office.
Marc Cardaronella’s Catechetical Blog: where parish leaders, catechists, and parents can find ideas, information, and resources for handing on the beauty of the Catholic Faith in a way that inspires others to change their lives for Christ.
Sadlier’s We Believe and Share: a blog of inspiration and resources for Catholics.
Hints for Caring for Catechists: catechists look to catechetical leaders for inspiration, guidance, and support.
Tools to Evaluation a Religious Education Program: suggestions from the Nationa Catholic Educational Association.
Transforming Catechesis: helping catechists, parishes, and school catechetical leaders become more effective in their roles.

Resources for Leading Staff Prayer

Catechetical Documents:

The Catechetical Leader in the Third Millennium: a Statement of the Catholic Bishops of New York State regarding the importance and scope of the catechetical leader in the parish.
The Catechist in the Third Millennium: addresses the new urgency and concern for both the quality of catechesis and those who are called to this ministry; published by the New York State Roman Catholic Bishops in 1998.
Catechism of the Catholic Church: The teachings of the Catholic Church in an authoritative form.
Compendium: Catechism of the Catholic Church: An abbreviated form of the Catechism of the Catholic Church in question and answer format.
Conformity Listing of Catechetical Texts and Series: The most current listing of religious education texts and series that have been found in conformity with the Catechism of the Catholic Church; published by the National Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Directory for Masses with Children: guides how Mass is to be celebrated with children; from the Congregation for Divine Worship.
General Directory for Catechesis: from the Vatican Congregation of the Clergy, good resource for catechetical leaders.
Living as Missionary Disciples: provides dioceses and parishes and other church ministries with a roadmap to “new paths for the Church’s journey” of evangelization.
In Support of Catechetical Ministry: Statement of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops recommitting to the development and support of the catechetical ministry. (Issued June 16, 2000)
Journeying Toward a Future Full of Promise: reflections and challenges from the NYS Bishops on catechesis in New York State (1988).
Social Media Guidelines: USCCB’s “best practices” for Church personnel using social media in ministry.

Professional Periodicals

Catechist: written for catechists in parish religious education programs and for teachers of religion in Catholic schools. For nearly four decades, Catechist magazine has been the leading periodical that helps both the veteran and the first-year catechist/teacher be more successful.
The Catechetical Review: an international quarterly catechetical journal primarily written for Directors of Religious Education, catechetical leaders, religious educators, youth ministers, RCIA coordinators and anyone involved in faith formation. From the Franciscan University of Steubenville.

Catechist Help and Resources

“At the origin of the catechist’s vocation, therefore, apart from the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, there is a specific call from the Holy Spirit, a “special charism recognized by the Church” and made explicit by the Bishop’s mandate. It is important for the catechist candidate to recognize the supernatural and ecclesial significance of this call.” (Guide for Catechists, 2)

Prayer/Reflection for Catechists

The Lord be with You: Prayers for catechists from Bill Huebsch and the Pastoral Center
Catechist’s Prayer: in English and Spanish from the USCCB Catechetical Sunday webpages.
Beatitudes for Catechists: a prayer of blessings for catechists.
How can a Catechist Find Sanctuary? A video by Terry Hershey, author of “Sanctuary: Creating a Space for Grace in Your Life.”

Blogs and Discussion Groups

21st Century Catholic Evangelization: blogs are written by the members of the NCCL Evangelization Committee and invited guest authors exploring approaches, practices, resources, and programs.
Be My Disciples: join as we talk and teach about true discipleship, as we find ways to help teachers, parents, catechists and students articulate the gospel message so that others will better understand it. A ministry of RCL Benziger.
Relevant Catechesis: a blog designed to share insights and ideas for carrying out the work of catechesis in a Catholic Parish.
Catechists Journey: Joe Paprocki of Loyola Press gives idea and tips, solace and encouragement to catechists. You may subscribe to email delivery.
Catholic Mom: Although the goal of this site is to celebrate Catholic motherhood and to learn and share about topics related to faith and family, you may find a lot of ideas here.
Faith Formation Learning Exchange: news articles, blogs and great resources for faith formation for all ages and generations.
Sadlier’s We Believe and Share: inspiration and resources for Catholics.
Transforming Catechesis: helping catechists, the parish, and school catechetical leaders become more effective in their roles.

Tools for Catechists

10 Ways That Technology Can Improve Your Religious Education: a webinar by Victor Valenzuela, Sadlier National Consultant.
20 Uses for Smartphones in School: written for school, but has applications for the religious education environment.
Finding Copyright-Free Images for Catechetical Use: understanding copyright issues for catechists and leaders, and where to find copyright-free images.
Joe Paprocki: Catechist Webinars helps to become a better catechist.
Lesson Plan Template: a blank lesson plan that catechists can use to create a catechetical session.
Make Beliefs Comix: have fun by creating your own comic strips. Great homework assignment.
Motivator: Create, share, and buy your own customized motivational posters.
Prezi: create presentations that you can present from anywhere with an Internet connection.
Puzzlemaker: a free puzzle generation tool for teachers, students, and parents. Create and print customized word search, criss-cross, math puzzles, and more-using your own word lists.
Teaching Catholic Kids: from Our Sunday Visitor, is an online tool for parents, teachers and catechists. Free downloadable activities and teacher resources are updated each month.
Word Search Creator: create word search games for the classroom or home.
YouCat: based on the Catechism of the Catholic Church YouCat (Youth Catechism) is written for and by young people who want to know what they believe.

Websites for Catechists

Amazing Catechists: serves and supports catechists as you bring the light of our Catholic Faith to others.
C21 — The Church in the 21st Century: Boston College provides solid theological resources on the Catholic faith in magazine, video, web and podcast formats.
CatechismClass.com: an online and interactive religious education program for Catholics of all ages.
Catechism in a Year: Get a little of the Catechism emailed to you each day, read and you’ll have covered the entire Catechism of the Catholic Church in a year.
Catechist Café: the diocese of Youngstown diocesan library website.
Catechist Magazine: the official magazine of the National Catholic Catechists Society.
Catholic Apostolate Center: assisting pastoral leaders in deepening collaboration with one another and providing formation and apostolic opportunities.
Catholic Catechist: a source for comprehensive teaching resources including lesson plans, games, icebreakers, worksheets and many other useful ideas. Note: some of this site is by paid subscription only.
Catholic Educators Resource Center: online source for information on Catholic faith and culture.
Catholic Relief Services Education: a gateway to activities, lesson plans, simulations, prayer services and other resources that explore global issues through the lens of Catholic Social teaching.
eCatechist: Ideas, inspiration, and resources are the focus of this online resource for catechists.
Domestic Church: promotes a Catholic culture of the home that will aid each family to become “what you are!”
Formed: a streaming video resource for Catholic content.
Institute for Christian Formation (ICF): assists Catholic Christians in celebrating and handing on faith in a manner authentic to our Roman Catholic tradition.
Loyal Press’s Presentations: powerpoint presentations that catechists can use in the classroom; you can show them on the Internet or download.
Magis Center of Reason and Faith: explores and shares the close connection between reason and faith as revealed by new discoveries in physics and philosophy.
Praying the Rosary: a PowerPoint presentation for the classroom on praying the rosary in English and Spanish.
RCL Benziger: downloadable resources, prayers, and activities.
Resources for Catholic Educators: seeks to assist Catholic teachers and catechists by providing them with information and easy access to resources. links, handouts, lesson plans and other resources.
St. Mary’s Press Resource Center: a variety of online resources for catechists in a variety of formats.
Sister Rose Goes to the Movies: Daughter of St. Paul, Sister Rose Pacatte offers video reviews of current movies along with discussion questions for class.
The Liturgical Catechist: promotes liturgical catechesis.
The Religion Teacher: offers practical resources and teaching strategies to help religious educators transform the lives of the young people they teach.
True Freedom: Anti-Pornography initiative materials available from the Archdiocesan Family Life Office.

References

Catechetical Formation in Chaste Living: Guidelines for Curriculum and Publication — guidelines for teaching human sexuality in Catholic schools and religious education programs; approved by the NCCB in November 2007.
Catechism of the Catholic Church: the teachings of the Catholic Church in an authoritative form.
Catholic Information Service: the Knights of Columbus provide resources on many topics of Catholic belief and doctrine.
Compendium: Catechism of the Catholic Church: the Catechism of the Catholic Church in question and answer format.
General Catechetical Directory: published by the Sacred Congregation for the Clergy, April 11, 1971.
General Directory for Catechesis: from the Vatican Congregation of the Clergy, good resource for catechetical leaders.
Guide for Catechists: the identity of the catechist, his/her selection, formation and spirituality; basic apostolic tasks and finally, the economic situation, from the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples.
In Support of Catechetical Ministry: Statement of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops recommitting to the development and support of catechetical ministry. (Issued June 16, 2000)
Social Media Guidelines: USCCB’s “best practices” for Church personnel using social media in ministry.
The Catechist in the Third Millennium: addresses the new urgency and concern for both the quality of catechesis and those who are called to this ministry; published by the New York State Roman Catholic Bishops in 1998.

Church and Church Documents

Catechism of the Catholic Church: The teachings of the Catholic Church in an authoritative form.
Catholic Library at New Advent Website: an extensive library of Catholic Church documents.
Code of Canon Law: the Catholic Church’s order and discipline, structures, rules, and procedures.
Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church: An abbreviated form of the Catechism of the Catholic Church in question and answer format.
Doctrinal Note on some Aspects of Evangelization: the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith clarifies issues surrounding evangelization; issued December 14, 2007.
Documents of Vatican II: The documents that were formally issued during the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965).
Encyclicals, Letters, Speeches of Pope Francis.
Early Church Fathers: an electronic edition of the Early Church Fathers series in various formats.
General Directory for Catechesis: from the Vatican Congregation for Clergy, a good resource for catechetical leaders.
Living as Missionary Disciples: A Resource for Evangelization
National Directory for Catechesis: builds on some of the core themes of the General Directory for Catechesis and provides practical tools for doing catechesis well. Not available for download online; online purchase only. National Directory for Catechesis Worksheets
The Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Sacrament of the Eucharist: Basic Questions and Answers — published by the United States Catholic Conference, 2001.
US Catholic Catechism for Adults — an aid and a guide for individuals and small groups to deepen their faith.

Computer and Online Resources

Apps

30hands: a storytelling app that allows students, teachers and anyone with creativity to easily create narrated stories or presentations based on photos, images, drawings using an iPad, iPhone or iPod.
3D Catholic: invites you to join others in your immediate area in practicing 3 Catholic devotions for 30 days; namely, the Angelus, Meatless Fridays, and the Works of Mercy.
Catholic Apptitude: doing all the work for you in locating quality Catholic apps and present them in a neat, orderly format for you to browse according to your needs and interests.
CatholicApps.com: advertised as “app advice for your Catholic faith.”
Catholic New York App: live links to our website pages, an ability to crop and share pages from CNY’s pages with friends, bookmarks for saving stories for reading later and a calendar button for reviewing past issues. For iPhone/iPad and Android.
Catholic Words & Games App: a great way kids of all ages can learn Catholic vocabulary words while visually identifying objects they see in church. It combines high-quality graphics and sound with video game-play to help make learning fun on iPad, iPhone or Android tablet/phone.
Decision Point: a confirmation program to help young people explore some of the most important questions in life, like considering what and who God is calling you to be. Play Store | App Store
Evangelizo: contains daily readings, a list of saints along with a short biography of each and a selection of prayers. Play Store | App Store
iPieta: includes all the books of the Bible, traditional prayers of the Church, the daily Mass readings, a special section with catechetical documents, papal encyclicals, and complete writings of many saints. Play Store | App Store
Laudate: provides traditional prayers of the Church, such as the Rosary and the Stations of the Cross with images to assist your prayer of the Rosary. Play Store | App Store
The Mass Explained: fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Roman Catholic Mass. For iPad.
PeaceQuest: helps you take a spiritual journey to places of prayer.
Plickers: a simple tool that lets teachers collect real-time formative assessment data without the need for student devices.
The Vatican News: features the latest papal news and information as produced by the Vatican’s own media services – including Vatican Radio. Play Store | App Store
Roman Missal: this app will help you to learn the revised Mass.
Rosary App: helps you to pray the daily rosary and the chaplet of the Divine Mercy.
Sinner2Saint App: Personal Trainer for the Soul — helps Catholic sinners avoid temptations and sin by growing in virtue through a mix of prayer, penance, bible scripture, mental discipline, worship, sacraments, saints and religious quotes.
The Truth and Life Bible App: a free dramatized audio Bible app.
USA Catholic Church app: bringing you closer to the Church, and the Church closer to you. Featuring, daily scripture readings, live Catholic news, English/Spanish capability, news alerts, calls-to-action, events calendar and church finder by location, city, zip code. Play Store | App Store
Vatican App: information on the activities and writings of Pope Francis and a virtual tour of St. Peter’s Square and the Sistine Chapel. Play Store | App Store

Catechetical Leader and Technology

Catechetical Leader’s Guide to Planning a Website: what to consider when planning or re-doing a website.
Facebook and Child Protection: guidelines from the Safe Environment Office about using social media in ministry.
Introduction to the Archdiocesan Safe Environment Policies for Technology: includes the section Electronic Communication, Internet and Computer Use.
Introduction to the Catechetical Leader in the Third Millennium: includes relevant text from the document.
Technology Planning Guide for Faith Formation: reviews what to consider when planning to introduce technology in the faith formation setting.
Using Email as a Catechetical Leader: considerations for leadership.
Email Etiquette: hints and tips to better emailing.
10 Ways to Integrate Technology into the Classroom: integrating technology into your classroom can be a daunting task; here are 10 surprisingly simple ways to use technology as part of your lesson plans.

Online

Catechetical Office Facebook Page: become a fan!
CatechismClass.com: an online and interactive religious education program for Catholics of all ages.
Catholic Distance University: response to the need for life-long spiritual formation and a deeper knowledge of Church Teaching.
Don’t Fall For Fake Tech Support Scams: a helpful website that prepares computer users not to fall for being scammed online.
Fears about Blogging: a blogger, who is in her 70’s, speaks about her fears of getting into blogging. Great for anyone over 50!
iEcho Web Portal: our online classroom offered through a partnership with Marist College.
Putting the Tech in caTECHesis: resources from the Diocese of Syracuse which can help you with ideas of how to engage children and youth.
Sadlier On-Demand Webinars: for catechists working in parish programs.
Social Media is a Tool for Evangelism: Meredith Gould speaks about the possibilities of social media in ministry.

Copyright and Fair Use in the Internet Age

Church Video Licensing: be aware that showing videos to church groups requires a license from the copyright owner. You can buy such a license from a company like this. See also Motion Picture Licensing Corporation.
Copyright and Fair Use Guidelines for the classroom: from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
Copyright and Fair Use Animation: an introduction to copyright/fair use; a YouTube video.
Honoring Fair Use: an infographic poster on fair use from OSV.

Evangelization

General Resources

Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis of the USCCB: offers resources, documents, and links on evangelization and catechesis.
New Evangelization: calls all Catholics to be evangelized and then go forth to evangelize. Resources from the USCCB.

Church Documents

Ad Gentes: On The Mission Activity Of The Church — Decree on the Missionary Activity of the Church from the Second Vatican Council (1965).
Disciples Called to Witness: The New Evangelization — a statement by the Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis (2012)
Go and Make Disciples: A National Plan and Strategy for Catholic Evangelization in the United States in English and Spanish by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (1992).
Evangelii Nuntiandi (On Evangelization in the Modern World): Pope Paul VI’s Apostolic Exhortation (1964).
Redemptoris missio (On the permanent validity of the Church’s missionary mandate): Pope John Paul II encyclical on missionary activity (1990).
Living as Missionary Disciples: an online version providing principles of evangelization and missionary discipleship for parishes and dioceses.

Other

Catholics Come Home: reaches out to inactive Catholics with inspiring TV commercials and an interactive Web site.
Catholic Information Service: the Knights of Columbus offer the New Evangelization Series of online booklets on “the beauty and contemporary relevance of faith.”
Paulist National Catholic Evangelization Association: (PNCEA) builds up the body of Christ by equipping Catholics to evangelize.

Liturgy/Sacraments

Note: for the sacraments of Priesthood and Marriage see Vocations below.

Office of Liturgy: Archdiocesan Liturgy Office website.

Reconciliation

A Guide to Confession: an infographic from Busted Halo, which could be taken into the confessional.
Let the Children Come: The Sacrament of Reconciliation and Children: using this resource, teach your children the practice of Examination of Conscience.
Penance — Reconciled to Right Relationship, Called to Heal and Restore: a resource from the USCCB.
Sacrament of Penance: Guides for before, during and after the reception of the sacrament.
Rediscovering the Sacrament of Penance: resources for understanding and celebrating the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Going to Confession in Seven Steps: a presentation on Prezi.
Examination of Conscience for a Penance Service: read aloud by two readers.

Lectionary Resources

Lectionary Resources from RCL for the classroom
The Sunday Website of St. Louis University: reflections, spirituality and liturgical help for Sunday Eucharist.

Eucharist / Mass

The Mass Explained: fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the mass.
The Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Sacrament of the Eucharist — Basic Questions and Answers: from the USCCB.
Elements of the Catholic Mass Videos: a series of well-produced videos from the Liturgical Institute on The Meaning of Liturgy, Intelligent Worship, The Role of the Parishioner, The Church Building, Processions, Signs and Symbols and Sacramental Signs.
Celiac Disease, Alcohol Intolerance, and the Church’s Pastoral Response: from the USCCB.

General

Catholic News Agency resources: on each of the sacraments.
General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM): the English translation (Third Typical Edition), 2002.
Guidelines for the Celebration of the Sacraments with Persons with Disabilities
International Commission on English in the Liturgy: this Commission prepares English translations of the Latin liturgical books and other liturgical texts in accord with the directives of the Holy See.
Liturgical Guidelines of the Archdiocese: various liturgical resources from the Archdiocesan Liturgy Office for the celebration of sacraments and on liturgical music.
Loyola Press Sacraments resources: on each of the sacraments.
Liturgiam Authenticam (On the Use of Vernacular Languages in the Publication of the Books of the Roman Liturgy): the Vatican’s guidance for the creation of vernacular translations of the Roman liturgy.
Liturgical Calendar: from Catholic News Service.
Liturgical Year Resources: from CatholicCulture.org.
FAQ’s on the Triduum: information on the Paschal Triduum from the USCCB.
The Catholic Liturgical Library: dedicated to providing accurate historical and current information about the liturgies of the Latin (Roman) rite of the Catholic Church.
The Liturgical Catechist: resources for living and teaching the Catholic faith rooted in the liturgy.
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Web Pages on the Roman Missal: has comprehensive resources to help you and your parish in understanding and implementing the changes in the Roman Missal.

Mary and the Saints

Mary

All About Mary: an encyclopedic tool for information on Mary, the Mother of Christ from the University of Dayton.
Mary in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, see #963-975 and #484-507
Catholic Encyclopedia (1917 edition): entry on the Blessed Virgin Mary
Catholic News Agency links to documents and resources about Mary.
International Marian Research Institute
Marian Prayers
Mariological Society of America
Mary in the United States Catholic Catechism for Adults, chapter 12
May Crowning Activities: a collection of class resources from Jared Dees, “the Religion Teacher.”
365 Days with Mary: an app designed to accompany you on a year-long spiritual journey to draw closer to Christ with the help of our Blessed Mother.
Marian Resources from Loyola Press.
Marialis Cultus: For the Right Ordering and Development of Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary by Blessed Pope Paul VI.
How to Pray the Rosary: a handout that teaches how to pray the Rosary.
Try the Virtual Rosary for your computer or laptop.
Doing Rite: The Rosary — a four-page brochure detailing the mysteries and relates the rosary to scripture and the liturgy from The Institute for Christian Formation.
PowerPoint presentation on the Rosary: provides a basic overview of the Catholic tradition of celebrating October as the Month of the Holy Rosary. The presentation includes a complete script so that catechists and religion teachers can effectively lead their students to a deeper understanding of this treasured Catholic devotion.

Collections of Saints

AmericanCatholic.org: an encyclopedia of biographies and reflections on numerous saints sorted by feast day or alphabetically.
Loyola Press web pages on Saints: offers biographies, activities, and reflections on saints.
Catholic Toolbox: a comprehensive collection of links especially appropriate for All Saints Day.
Saints Resource: saints index, saints maps, and terminology from RCL.

Canonization Process

If you are interested in learning more about the process of canonization:

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has a pdf resource called How the Church Recognizes Saints.
4 Steps to Becoming a Saint: a handout from William H Sadlier, Inc.

Morality/Social Justice

Catholic Social Teaching

Catholic Social Teaching: the USCCB has a wide range of resources on Catholic teaching on economic life.
Catholic Social Teaching: Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of St. Paul/Minneapolis provides most of the official social teaching documents of the Catholic Church and also a variety of resources to help you explore this rich body of moral teaching.
Catholic Social Teaching (CRS): videos, lesson plans, and discussion guides.

Ethics/Morality

Catholic Coalition on Climate Change: What are the moral implications of climate change? Who is most impacted? What should the Catholic community do? The Catholic Coalition on Climate Change helps the Catholic community address these issues.
Torture is a Moral Issue: A Catholic Study Guide — this guide examines torture within the larger context of Catholic social teaching.
Courage and EnCourage Apostolates: supporting those with same-sex attractions and their families, in fidelity to Catholic teaching.
The Way of the Lord Jesus — a moral theology for today’s Catholic: Germain Grisez, the former Most Rev. Harry J. Flynn Professor of Christian Ethics at Mount Saint Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, Maryland, is behind this resource.
Same-Sex Marriage:
- Gaudium et Spes: “Therefore, there must be made available to all men everything necessary for leading a life truly human, such as food, clothing, and shelter; the right to choose a state of life freely and to found a family, the right to education, to employment, to a good reputation, to respect, to appropriate information, to activity in accord with the upright norm of one’s own conscience, to protection of privacy and rightful freedom even in matters religious.” (#26)
- Ministry to Persons with a Homosexual Inclination: “In keeping with this conviction, the Church teaches that persons with a homosexual inclination “must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity.” We recognize that these persons have been, and often continue to be, objects of scorn, hatred, and even violence in some sectors of our society. Sometimes this hatred is manifested clearly; other times, it is masked and gives rise to more disguised forms of hatred. “It is deplorable that homosexual persons have been and are the object of violent malice in speech or in action. Such treatment deserves condemnation from the Church’s pastors wherever it occurs.” (General Principles)
- Always Our Children: “The purpose of this pastoral message is to reach out to parents trying to cope with the discovery of homosexuality in their adolescent or adult child. It urges families to draw upon the reservoirs of faith, hope, and love as they face uncharted futures. It asks them to recognize that the Church offers enormous spiritual resources to strengthen and support them at this moment in their family’s life and in the days to come.” (Preface)
- U.S. Bishop’s Pastoral Letter on Marriage: The letter presents the essential points of Catholic teaching on marriage as a natural gift, as a sacrament, and as a public commitment between a man and a woman. It also discusses several contemporary challenges to marriage and how the Church addresses those challenges.
Natural Family Planning:

Life Issues

Archdiocesan Public Policy web pages: features resources on the care of creation, assisted suicide, marriage, human trafficking, religious freedom, immigration reform, opposing abortion, persecuted Christians, gender ideology, and more.
Archdiocesan Family Life + Respect Life Office: provides programs and resources on family and life issues.
Catholic Health Care Proxy: Downloadable guidance for Catholics with the health care proxy published by the New York State Catholic Conference.
Now and at the Hour of Our Death: offers Catholics moral clarity and guidance on the Church’s teachings regarding end-of-life decision making.
Forty Days for Life: a community-based campaign that draws attention to the evil of abortion through the use of a three-point program: Prayer and fasting, Constant vigil, and Community Outreach.
Gianna Center: committed to providing high quality, scientifically-based healthcare to all women, regardless of their faith tradition or personal beliefs.
New Yorkers for Life: a diverse coalition of New Yorkers united in protecting life from its beginning and respecting life until its natural end.
The National Catholic Bioethics Center: conducts research, consultation, publishing, and education to promote human dignity in health care and the life sciences, deriving its message from the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Pro-Life Blessings: the Rite for the Blessing of a Child in the Womb was crafted to support parents awaiting the birth of their child, to encourage parish prayers for — and recognition of — the precious gift of the child in the womb, and to foster respect for human life within society.
Respect Life Lesson Plans and Resources: an amazing tool available for you, DRE’s and Catechists!! It is meant to help teach your youth a total appreciation for Life from conception to natural death. resources include lesson plans, handouts, and videos.
Respect Life Program: the USCCB Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities publishes a program packet each year to call attention to numerous human life issues. These materials are especially helpful for priests, parish groups, and other organizations.
“Two Feet of Love in Action”: is a handout that describes how love is concretely expressed in action. A work of the USCCB’s Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development. There is also a facilitator’s guide.
Assisted Suicide:
- Archdiocesan Public Policy Web page on assisted suicide
- To Live Each Day with Dignity: resources from the USCCB
- Stop Assisted Suicide: advocacy for the protection of end of life
- Caring for Loved Ones at Life’s End: from the USCCB
- Catholic End of Life: help you to navigate the end-of-life questions and challenges that you and/or your loved ones face, and bring peace to a stressful situation.

Public Policy

CatholicVote.com: A website that hopes to provide Catholics and all people of good will with the tools to both educate and inspire them as faithful citizens.
Faithful Citizenship: Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship — A Call to Political Responsibility from the Bishops of the United States.
New York State Catholic Conference: the New York State Catholic Conference represents the Bishops of New York State in matters of Public Policy, seeking justice, fairness, and charity for all, with a particular emphasis on the poor and vulnerable.

Social Justice

Catholic Relief Services Education: a gateway to activities, lesson plans, simulations, prayer services and other resources that explore global issues through the lens of Catholic Social teaching. Catholic Relief Services Resources.
Discover your Neighbor: Motivated by love, inspired by the Gospel, and guided by our Catholic identity, the Maryknoll Society’s Discover Your Neighbor program empowers
young people as agents of encounter to transform our world.
Education for Justice: created to help teachers, social action directors, parish members, campus ministers, and others in leadership roles to meet the challenge of sharing Catholic Social Teaching and bring greater awareness to social justice issues.
Justice, Peace and Human Development Committee of the USCCB: offers a variety of resources and tools to support catechists.
Missionary Childhood Association (formerly Holy Childhood Association): offers resources for teachers and parish staff in mission education.

News and References

References

Catholic Encyclopedia: an online version of the 1917 edition of this encyclopedia.
General Calendar and Roman Liturgical Calendar of the Catholic Church
New American Bible
Modern Catholic Dictionary Online by Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.

News

Catholic News Service: has a mission “to spread the Gospel through contemporary means of communication.”
Catholic New York: the official newspaper of the Archdiocese of New York.
L’Osservatore Romano: provides information on international affairs and the cultural debates and events happening in the Church.
Vatican Radio: the broadcasting station of the Holy See, legally based in the Vatican City State. It is a mean of communication and evangelization created to serve the Pope’s Ministry.
The Vatican on YouTube: offers news coverage and live activities of the Holy Father and of relevant Vatican events.
Zenit: a news service with the goal of providing news “about the ‘world seen from Rome,’ with professionalism and faithfulness to the truth.” Available in six languages.

Prayer and Spirituality

How to’s

How to Pray: a resource published by the National Catholic Register suitable as a handout.
Loyola Press: What does it mean to pray? How can I pray? How can I help myself and others to deepen our prayer lives? What are traditional Catholic prayers? In this section you will find answers to these questions and other helpful resources to deepen your personal prayer life.
Daily Examen: how to practice a daily prayerful review of the day.

Liturgy of the Hours

iBreviary: a free Android app that brings the Catholic prayer of the Liturgy of the House and the readings of the Liturgy to phones and tablet.
Liturgy of the Hours Apostolate: offers the daily Liturgy of the Hours in various languages.

Lectio Divina

Contemporary Catholics on Traditional Devotions: Lectio Divina — an article from America Magazine by Daniel J. Harrington.
American Bible Society Lectio Divina Weekly Resource: subcribe to receive the coming Sunday’s readings and suggestions for your Meditatio, Oratio and Contemplatio.
Contemplative Outreach: brochure describing Lectio Divina.
Lectio Divina and Catechists: a resource introducing catechists to Lectio Divina.

Online Prayer Experiences

A weekend retreat by Fr. Larry Gillick, SJ: conferences centered around the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. As such they are not about answers, but inspiration to asking the right questions and praying for answers.
ComePraytheRosary: allows Catholics worldwide to join together while praying the Rosary or to pray the Rosary individually.
Labyrinth Online: take off your virtual shoes and prayerfully walk the labyrinth.
Creighton University Online Ministries: prayer site with links to online retreats, daily reflections and other prayer supports.
Online Retreat in Everyday Life: An Online Retreat for 34 weeks sponsored by the Collaborative Ministry Office at Creighton University.
Sacred Space: Daily Online Prayer in numerous languages.
Sistine Chapel: a beautiful virtual tour; could be argued that it is better than being there. Use the artwork to inspire your prayer.
Virtual Rosary: the original free free multimedia rosary and prayer network.

Prayer Resources

CRS Catholic Prayer Resources: a variety of free, downloadable resources helping the poor overseas.
Click to Pray App: the app of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network (Apostleship of Prayer). It offers you three brief moments of prayer each day. You are invited to join the Pope’s call to connect your heart with others seeking to serve the mission of Jesus.
Daily Prayer Page: provides a variety of different prayers online.
Pray as You Go: a daily prayer session, designed for use on portable MP3 players, to help you pray while traveling to and from work, study, etc.
Spirituality for Today: an interactive monthly magazine dedicated to a variety of current themes and questions concerning the Christian faith in this postmodern age.
The Five Loaves: between Sundays, spiritual practice for everyday living. Includes weekly videos and resources on five spiritual practices: Offer Radical Hospitality, Seek the Teachings, Pray All Ways, Tell the Stories of Grace and Blessing and Give Your Gifts.
Click to Pray App: the app of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network (Apostleship of Prayer). It offers you three brief moments of prayer each day. You are invited to join the Pope’s call to connect your heart with others seeking to serve the mission of Jesus.

Religious Organizations

For professional organizations, see the Catechetical Leadership section of this Resource area.

Aid Organizations

Catholic Near East Welfare Association (CNEWA): supports the pastoral mission and institutions of the Eastern Catholic churches through humanitarian assistance, education and promoting Christian unity. Reflective handout for students.
Catholic Charities: Catholic Charities helps solve the problems of New Yorkers in need – non-Catholics and Catholics alike. The neglected child, the homeless family, and the hungry senior are among those for help is provide and hope restored.
Catholic Relief Services: the office international humanitarian agency of the U.S. Catholic community.
Missionary Childhood Association: offers young Catholics and their families opportunities to be missionaries.

Educational Organizations

The Diocesan Educational/Catechetical Leadership: designed for those leaders who serve the Bishops in Diocesan level roles as Vicar, Secretary of Education, Superintendent of Schools, and Directors/Staffs of Diocesan Office of Religious Education or other office staffs with a catechetical responsibility.

National Organizations

National Association for Lay Ministry: share their expertise and to support each other in the common goal of establishing and improving programs of lay ministry formation throughout the United States.
The National Black Catholic Congress: comprised of member organizations, represent African American Roman Catholics, working in collaboration with National Roman Catholic organizations.
National Catholic Rural Life Conference: applies the teachings of Jesus Christ for the social, economic, and spiritual development of rural America with responsibility for the care of God’s creation.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops: an assembly of the Catholic Church hierarchy who work together to unify, coordinate, promote, and carry on Catholic activities in the United States.

Other

Catholic Celiac Society: the mission is to educate Catholic celiacs about their options for Holy Communion as provided for by Canon Law and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.
The Christophers: encourages people of all ages, and from all walks of life, to use their God-given talents to make a positive difference in the world.
International Catholic Foundation: supports and promotes the religious formation and pastoral care of, with and by deaf people within the Catholic Community.
Josephite Pastoral Center: a resource center for materials, programs and services for us in the African American Apostolate.

Vatican

The Vatican Website in English and in Spanish: the official website of the Holy See.
Vatican Library: the library of the Holy See and one of the preeminent sources of information on the evolution of the Western world. The television program, 60 Minutes, has a segment on the Vatican Library.

Ecumenical

A Common Word: explores the common ground between Christianity and Islam from a Muslim perspective.
Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity: service in directing, coordinating and developing the ecumenical effort.
The World Council of Churches: is the broadest and most inclusive among the many organized expressions of the modern ecumenical movement, a movement whose goal is Christian unity.

Safe Environment/Tech Safety

Safe Environment Resources

Archdiocesan Safe Environment Office: consult their website for the most up-to-date forms, program information, Safer Spaces, and program resources for creating and maintaining a safe environment or call them 646-794-2810.
Crisis Management Plan Report: each year directors and coordinators are responsible for developing an emergency plan. In Word format.

Computer Safety Sites

Commonsense Media: gives insight on the latest entertainment and tech so you can decide what’s right for your children. Claims to be an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization.
Faith and Safety: a joint collaboration between the US Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, this website gives some simple, straightforward advice and tools on how families can navigate the digital world.
SafeKids.com: among the most established sites for Internet safety, it contains many resources for parents and educators in understanding and dealing with keeping kids safe online.
Family Safe Media: offers the latest products and services that can help parents control the media in their homes.
OnguardOnline.gov: helps you provide the people in your community with information about protecting kids online. Regardless of your experience as a speaker — or your expertise in online safety — this kit has the resources and information you need to convey key points about protecting kids online.

Textbook Correlations

Correlations help directors/coordinators and catechists make sure they cover the required material from the Archdiocesan Guidelines when using their textbook. These correlations have been prepared by the publishers themselves.

Loyola Press: Correlation of Christ our Life (2016 ed) and Finding God (2013 ed)
Our Sunday Visitor: Correlation of Alive in Christ (2014 ed)
Pflaum: Correlation of The Pflaum Gospel Weeklies: What the Church Believes and Teaches
Sadlier: Correlation of We Believe (2016 rev)

Videos for Faith Formation

We are living in an information-driven society which bombards us indiscriminately with data – all treated as being of equal importance – and which leads to remarkable superficiality in the area of moral discernment. In response, we need to provide an education which teaches critical thinking and encourages the development of mature moral values. (Evangelii Gaudium, 64)

Media Mindfulness helps adults, youth and children gain insight into Christian living by asking questions of the media to which children and adults are exposed. Questions are used to elicit the connection between faith and culture. Questions, such as:

“What would you have done in her place?”
“How would you feel if that happened to you?”
“What will you do next time you’re in that situation?” (See JClub Catholic for more.)

See Film Clips for Youth Faith Formation for an approach to using media mindfulness.

See Pauline Center for Media Studies who are focused on developing and encouraging media literacy/media mindfulness within the culture, education, and faith formation.

Copyright and Church Viewing:

Pre-recorded motion pictures and other audiovisual works (including DVDs, Blu-Rays, and online streaming and digital downloads) are authorized for personal, private use only.

See Church Video License which helps you show movies legally in your church.
See Showing Movies at Church: Do I Need a License? to help understand the copyright implications.

Need help with finding the right film?

FilmClipsOnline.com: films suggestions for character building.
Formed: the Catholic Faith on demand, free to parishes and programs in the Archdiocese of New York. The “Catholic version of Netflix” can be streamed to your TV or mobile device and contains some of the best Catholic content there is – video series, movies, books and study programs
Saint Mary’s Press: provides a video library on numerous faith topics free for viewing online.
Pflaum Gospel Weeklies: provides videos that correspond to the gospel for Sunday mass each week.
Videos from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops: offers videos on a variety of topics, such as faith life, marriage, faith formation.
YouTube Videos Correlated with the 4 Pillars of the Catechism: a download with links for Junior High/High School Faith Formation
WingClips: view inspirational movie clips from many of your favorite films. You can download with a subscription.
Pureflix: strives to be the most trusted family-friendly video-streaming source on the web.
ODB Films: a Catholic ministry that fosters an encounter with Christ through artfully made, spiritually rich films.

Video Archive

Seasonal

Advent

Advent In Two Minutes: a refresher course on Advent from Busted Halo.
Las Posadas: (in Spanish only) reflects on the significance of celebrating Las Posadas in the United States and reminds us of our responsibility to welcome the world’s most vulnerable.
Luchando Cantando: Advent Hope for Trying Times – four songs for each week of Advent as a gift of comfort, challenge, and hope from the Hispanic Theology and Ministry Program of Catholic Theological Union.
Making Advent a More Holy Season: tips for entering into the spirit of Advent.
The Spirituality of Advent: Father Robert Barron discusses some Advent themes.
What is Advent? It’s about waiting, not being bored!
What is Advent? a historical overview (Includes the Roman Catholic and Eastern Catholic Churches)
What is Advent? a contemporary look at the meaning of Advent.
You Don’t Know Jack about Advent: Father Jack from BustedHalo is on the case to understand Advent.

Christmas

A Social Network Christmas: how the story of the nativity might have read had a social network existed at the time of Jesus’ birth.
Arts and Faith: meditating on the Christmas mystery using a nativity scene.
Christmas in a Nutshell: the best gift of Christmas that keeps on giving.
He Came: a Christmas reflection.
He Came Down: a Christmas reflection with children with disabilities.
InstaChristmas: the Christmas story from an Instagram perspective.
Of the Father’s Love Begotten: an ancient Christmas song.
One Solitary Life: a meditation on the original by Dr. James Allan Francis.
Santa vs. Jesus: is their a difference? Yes, Virginia!
Shadow Drama: telling the Nativity story.
Silent Monks: “singing” the Hallelujah Chorus
Leading Others to Epiphany: Epiphany contains many messages and images relevant to catechists.

Lent

Ash Wednesday & Lent in Two Minutes: from Busted Halo.
Lent in Three Minutes: from Busted Halo.
Ash Wednesday and Lent in 60 seconds – with LEGO!
Be Kind: James Martin, S.J., describes three simple ways you can be kinder to others this Lent.
Get Back on Track this Lent: Pope Francis encourages us during Lent.
Go into the Desert for Lent: how Lent is like what Jesus did by going into the desert.
I am SO Hungry: reflections on abstinence during Lent.
Lent FAQ’s: simple answers to frequently asked questions about Lent by Joe Paprocki.
Lenten Reflection: Father James Martin, SJ, reflects on almsgiving and joy.
Prayer and Lent: they go together. A pep talk from Fr. Pontifex.
Season of Lent: a video meditation on fasting and feasting during Lent.
So What’s the Story with Lent? explains what Lent is really about.
Stations of the Cross: a puppet version of the Stations of the Cross created by Jesuit Brother Edward Sheehy, edited and produced by Yvonne Balcer and filmed at St. Peter’s Church, Jersey City, NJ.
Stations of the Cross: take a walk with Jesus in these Busted Halo prayer videos.
This Time Of Forty Days by Nick Alexander, a Catholic artist.
What is Lent?: Cardinal Dolan reflects on the meaning of Lent.
You Don’t Know Jack about Lent: Fr. Jack takes a look at Lent with his on the street commentary.
What is Lent all about? What does Baptism have to do with the season of Lent? a project of St. Augustine and Ascension youth ministry, Baltimore, MD.
Why Do Catholics Give Up Meat During Lent? Sister B answers this baffling question.

Holy Week/Easter/Pentecost

Arts and Faith: Easter: a look at Easter through the lens of great art.
Arts and Faith: Palm Sunday: a look at Palm Sunday through the lens of great art.
Christ is Risen: a look at Christ’s passion and resurrection using social media and scripture.
Easter Reflection: a reflection from Fr. Tom Rosica, CSB, on Easter.
Egg: An Easter Meditation — a poetic reflection on what the egg teaches us about the Resurrection of Christ.
Holy Week in Two Minutes: fast-paced look at the liturgies of Holy Week.
It’s Pentecost: what the feast of Pentecost can mean in our lives.
Holy Week Reflection: a reflection from Fr. Tom Rosica, CSB, on Holy Week.
Pentecost in Two Minutes: this video explains what behind the feast of Pentecost.
The Appearance of Christ on the Road to Emmaus: tells a version of the gospel with real actors.
The Story of Pentecost: an engaging retelling of Pentecost using lots of creativity.

Other Feasts/Seasons

Christ the King: images to inspire and to help you pray.
Halloween and the Saints: Fr. James Martin describes the connections between the Saints and All Saints Day, including canonization process, patron saints, and highlights of various individual saints.
New Year Prayer: a video prayer meditation exploring what to ask God for in the New Year.
Prayer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus: from Catholic Online.
St. Valentine: about this misunderstood martyr.
What’s a Mother’s Love All About: a reflection that, no matter where a mother is from, or her circumstances, all mother’s want the same things for their children.
Liturgical Calendar: everything you need to know about the Church year.

Church

Who is Pope Francis? a slideshow video biography of Pope Francis.
The eight most powerful moments of Pope Francis’ visit to the United States
What is a Synod? explains the meaning and workings of a synod of bishops.
The Marks of the Church: what does one, holy, catholic and apostolic mean?
Pope Francis: learn more about Pope Francis, in cartoon format.
Sisters of Charity Rebuilding Lives with Love: the bicentennial of the Sister of Charity of New York.

Morality

A Crime Against Humanity: a video on human trafficking by Catholic Relief Services.
Catholic Teaching on Welcoming Refugees: Catholic leaders, including Cardinal Peter Turkson and Archbishop José Gomez, reflect on Church teaching related to welcoming refugees.
Dos and Don’ts of the Corporal Works of Mercy: tips on how NOT to be merciful.
You Don’t Know Jack!…about Sin: a discussion starter about sin.
Care for God’s Creation: the Christian call to care for the earth.
Mercy in the City: How to Feed the Hungry, Give Drink to the Thirsty, and Keep Your Day Job.
10 Things You Might Not Know about Catholics: a good discussion starter.
Seven Corporal Works of Mercy: video slideshow.
Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy: all the corporal/spiritual works of mercy in the life of a teen.
The Power of Your Purchase: behind the things we buy is the story of a human person; from CRS.

Mary and the Saints

10 Things about Saints You May Not Know: ten unusual stories about saints are shown in this short video.
All Saints Day: musical presentation of the saints.
All Souls Day: a video on the practice of praying for the dead on All Souls Day.
How Does the Catholic Church Declare Official Saints?: a look at the process from Busted Halo.
Live Like the Saints: a music video inspiring us to live like saints.
Mary in Two Minutes: why is Mary important to Catholics?
St John Bosco: a look at John Bosco’s life and ministry of service to youth.
St. Christina the Astonishing: the story of a “spooky saint,” but the patron of the mentally ill.
Sts. Cyril and Methodius: the story of their life and relationship.
St. Junipero Serra: the life and story of an American Franciscan saint.
The Saint Song: an amusing song that names quite a number of our saints.
The Secret of St. Francis: a meditation on the charism of Francis of Assisi.
Who Cares about the Saints? Fr. James Martin introduces his favorite saints. From Loyola Productions.
The Rosary in Two Minutes: a quick overview of this traditional Catholic prayer.
The Saint Song: A short song naming over a hundred saints, sung to the tune of a popular Gilbert and Sullivan song (also known as ‘The Element Song by Tom Lehrer).
Who Cares about the Saints? Mother Teresa with Fr. Jim Martin

Scripture Related

The Beatitudes: explore the Beatitudes depicted in Matthew’s Gospel.
Bible in a minute?: you decide.
Cast your Nets: a reflection on how God is asking you to deepen your ministry.
Come Home: a contemporary re-telling of the parable of the Prodigal Son.
Google is for web search: Jesus is the search for more.
God’s Story: cartoons retelling of Biblical stories.
Jesus in the Desert: a cartoon video of what it might have been like for Jesus in the desert for 40 days.
The Good Samaritan: the story of the Good Samaritan told in rap.
Kid’s Bible Stories: the parable of the unmerciful servant as told by kids and acted by adults.
The Parable of the Talents: a retelling of the parable of Jesus found in Matthew 25:14-30.
Prodigal Son: a short film about the prodigal son performed by children.
Psalm 23: a reading of Psalm 23.
The Acts of the Apostles in Three Minutes: an engaging outline of the book of Acts.
The Dead Sea Scrolls Online: an introduction to the Dead Sea Scrolls and their availability on the web.
When God’s Love Takes Over: a reflection on the parable of the prodigal son.
Why Does Jesus Ask Peter 3 Times, “Do You Love Me?”: find out the reason behind Jesus’ “Do you love me?” triple-questioning as well as an overview of biblical numbers.
Zombies vs. Jesus: zombies as a metaphor for sin.

Sacraments/Liturgy

General

Confession: Matt Weber describes his feelings about going to Confession.
Sacraments and Sacramentals: insight into what sacramentality means in the Catholic Church.
The Seven Sacraments: a brief overview of the seven Sacraments of the Catholic Church and the purpose each serves.
Reflections on the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy: impact of the document that shaped our liturgy.
This Sacred Council: looks at the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, promulgated on December 4, 1963, was the first document of the Second Vatican Council.

Baptism

Sacraments 101: Baptism — what is baptism about? why infant baptism?

Confirmation

Why is Confirmation Important?: looks at the why we are confirmed, its importance and how it helps the Christian.

Holy Eucharist/Mass

Sacraments 201: Eucharist — what we believe.
Origins of the Mass: an artsy presentation.
Eucharist — God’s Way of Embracing Us: Fr. Ron Rolheiser, OMI speaks of God’s Eucharistic embrace.
The Eucharist: explains the connection between Original Sin, Christ’s death and Resurrection, and the Mass.
The Altar Server: confessions of an altar server, a reflection on what it means to assist at Mass as an altar server.

Reconciliation/Penance

As the Family Goes: a reconciliation video looking at the consequences of sin and the hope of breaking free.
Why do we have to Confess our Sins to a Priest? Answers the age-old question.

Sacraments of Vocation

Consider a Catholic Vocation: Single, married, religious life and priesthood.
What Happens at a Catholic Wedding: a Catholic wedding is more than romance and legality.
Made for Life: A Catechetical and Educational Aid on the Gift of Children and the Indispensable Place of Fathers and Mothers in Marriage and Society.
Made for Each Other: explains how sexual difference is essential to marriage.

Prayer/Reflection

A Word with Weber: Appreciation — some inspiration to appreciate those around us.
Appeal to Jesus: a meditation/prayer inspired by James Alberione.
A Prayer for Rest: a prayer for rest, perfect for any of us who need to pause in a hectic season.
Beginning of Holiness: a reflection in the words of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta.
Being Human: what would you do if you lost your job?
Call to Prayer: The U.S. Catholic Bishops have called for a nationwide effort to advance a movement for Life, Marriage, and Religious Liberty through prayer, penance, and sacrifice.
Christ Has No Online Presence But Yours: a prayer/reflection on the prayer by Meredith Gould.
Come to the Water: a reflection.
Conversación: A young man meets Jesus and confronts him with questions about the harsh injustice of illness, loneliness and helplessness in the face of pain. In Spanish with subtitles.
Disturb Us, O Lord: a contemporary take on the prayer by Sir Francis Drake.
God Whispers: Where are we looking for God?
Forgiveness: a story about forgiveness and a musical reflection.
Get Service: what would happen if we could see others more as God sees them.
He will Raise You Up: a reflection using music from this popular liturgical song.
Holy Mystery: a song of reflection by Monica Brown.
How am I Supposed to Pray? Suggestions to help you pray.
How to Create a Prayer Space for the Catechetical Classroom: prayer spaces are important. Here’s how.
Making the right choices, an Ignatian guide: Ignatian discernment explained.
Meet Mary: about the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD).
The Pope Video: Pope’s monthly prayer intentions from the Apostleship of Prayer.
Prayer of St. Francis: a meditation on the peace prayer of St. Francis.
Praying with Children: Episode 1 of 6 which speaks about praying spontaneously with children from the Apostleship of Prayer.
Prayer of Thomas Merton: a reading of one of Thomas Merton’s best-known prayers with pictures from Merton’s life.
Prayer Shaming: students from East Catholic High School in Connecticut reflect on prayer in the public space.
Psalms and other scripture: read meditatively with images.
Taken for Granted: what would it look like if everything you took for granted suddenly disappeared?
Thankful: a reflection on gratitude especially when we lose perspective.
The Power of Words: don’t underestimate what words can express.
TED Talk: Pope Francis speaks about why the only future worth building includes everyone.
The Time You Have (In JellyBeans): a meditation on what you do with your time.
What is Gratitude?: a reflection on gratitude.
When Coffee is Like Mud: a reflection on how God uses the physical world to connect with us (sacramentality), especially in the Eucharist.
Why Do You Love Him? Some children challenge us with their answers.

Theology

Can a Kid be a missionary?: what the Missionary Childhood Association is all about (formerly the Holy Childhood Association).
Do’s and Don’ts of Evangelization: examples of how to successfully evangelize or how to be a total evangelization failure.
Explaining the Holy Trinity: an analogy, based on writing a novel, for understanding the Trinity.
How Do They Choose the Pope?: a look at how the pope is elected.
How Does God Reveal Himself? Catechism in three minutes.
Natural Family Planning Explained: a Goodness Reigns video submission on NFP.
Seven Great Qualities of a New Evangelist: Fr. Robert Barron explains the qualities needed for being a good evangelist.
The Cross and Resurrection: Fr. Robert Barron speaks about the importance of the cross and resurrection of Jesus.
The Trinity Explained in Under 3 Minutes: just like it says — from Redeemed Online.
The Trinity: explained by Rev. Robert Barron
What is Faith?: some reflections on what faith is all about.
What is Heaven?: teaches the Christian belief in heaven.
What is the Holy Trinity?: a video that reflects on the meaning of the Trinity.
What is the New Evangelization?: You will know and remember from this four-minute video.
Why do we believe in God?: Father Robert Barron discusses this basic question.
Why I am a Catholic: a personal reflection of 200 words or less.
Why I love Jesus and Religion: a counterpoint to the viral video, Why I Love Jesus and Hate Religion.

Vocations

Resources

Catholics on Call: assists young adults reflect on God’s call in their lives, who may be considering the possibility of a life of service in the Church as a lay minister, religious sister or brother, or priest.
Hearing the Call: Thinking about religious life? These may be a help.
Vocation Tree: each individual Christian is uniquely called by God, beginning at Baptism, to go into the world and to bear much fruit. The Vocation Tree artwork helps to illustrate that this unique, individual vocation given to each Christian embodies many components. Interactive website.
What is a vocation? Answers to questions regarding the nature of a vocation, what a priest is, a sister is, a brother is, etc.

Universal Call to Holiness

Catechist Lesson Plan Resource on the Universal Call to Holiness from the Association for Catechetical Ministry.

Married Life as Vocation

For Your Marriage: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops marriage website that provides information, skills, inspiration and resources to help your marriage grow. Por Tu Matrimonio: Un espacio para inspirar, ayudar y exhortar a las parejas de habla hispana a vivir más plenamente su relación de pareja.
Couple Prayer: A program to help married or engaged couples learn how to pray together safely, closely, comfortably and consistently.
Institute for Marital Healing: Strengthens Catholic marriages and families by educating spouses, marital therapists and clergy about common causes of conflicts in marital self-giving and effective approaches to alleviating such conflicts
Marriage: Unique for a Reason: offers resources to assist with the education and catechesis of Catholics on why marriage is unique and why it should be promoted and protected as the union of one man and one woman.

Priesthood Vocation

Archdiocesan Vocations Office for Priesthood: the official website for priestly vocations in the Archdiocese of New York.
Eucharistic Adoration for the Sanctification of Priests and Spiritual Maternity: a guide to promote Eucharistic adoration for priestly vocations.
ForYourVocation.org: vocation resources from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishop.
Priesthood: a short YouTube video on the priesthood.

Diaconate Vocation (Deacon)

Permanent Deacons: official website for the permanent diaconate in the Archdiocese of New York
Diaconate FAQ’s: Frequently Asked Questions About Deacons
The Diaconate in Three Minutes: video about the ministry of deacons

Religious Life Vocation

A Nun’s Life: is about just that–LIFE–and how to live it fully in light of the Gospel! People from around the world gather to explore God’s calling in their lives.
Catholic News Publishing Company: Guide to Religious Ministries: a publication with information on men and women’s communities and volunteer opportunities.
ForYourVocation.org: vocation resources from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishop.
Jeopardy Game on Single and Religious Life: based on the game show, it contains categories based on vocations to the single and religious life.

Secular Institutes

United States Conference of Secular Institutes: members are consecrated by vows and are “in the world and not of the world, but for the world.”

Single Life as Vocation

Jeopardy Game on Single and Religious Life: based on the game show, it contains categories based on vocations to the single and religious life.
Single Life: The Universal Call To Holiness: a video that explores the universal call to holiness in the context of the single life.

Volunteer Opportunities

Catholic Network of Volunteer Services: an organization of Christian volunteer programs that promote full-time service and mission opportunities.
St. Vincent Pallotti Center: an organization to promote lay volunteer service opportunities in Christianbased programs.

Vocation Promotion Organizations/Websites

Catholics on Call: assists young adults to reflect on God’s call in their lives. We reach out to people like you—men and women of college and post-college age—who may be considering the possibility of a life of service in the Church as a lay minister, religious sister or brother, or priest.
National Conference for Diocesan Vocation Directors: promotes diocesan priesthood, providing resources for the formation, support, and advocacy of diocesan vocation directors as they work within the Catholic Church to foster a culture of vocations, raising up new priests for the Body of Christ.
National Religious Vocation Conference: is a professional organization of vocation ministers that presents religious life as a viable option in the Catholic Church. NRVC promotes vocation awareness, invitation, and discernment to life as a religious sister, brother, or priest. NRVC reflects all forms of religious life and provides educational opportunities, resources, and other supportive services for spiritual, professional, and personal growth.
Vocation Match (TrueQuest): with so many vocation options, it’s not easy to discern the best path to live out your Christian calling. Vocation Match was designed to narrow your search. It’s easy and fun!
Vocations and Prayer: Rogationist publications committed to promoting a culture of vocations in the Catholic Church through our magazine, Vocations and Prayer and various prayer resources specifically created to aid in vocation ministry.
Catholic Religious Vocation Network: Vision Vocation Guide, published annually by TrueQuest Communications on behalf of the National Religious Vocation Conference, is the best and most comprehensive resource available in print and online for those seeking information on Catholic religious vocations. En Espanol también.

Resources (Catechetical)