Does anyone know a good source for ECF curricula for teens? I want to add some spark to the classes. Hopefully some material on ethics and morals.

>>>Does anyone know a good source for ECF curricula for teens? I want to add some spark to the classes. Hopefully some
material on ethics and morals.<<<

Unfortunately, the Eastern Catholic Churches have only begun publishing their revised curriculum in the past year or two, starting from the lower grades and working up. Many of the Orthodox jurisdictions, however, have excellent materials for teens, which can be accessed through the Light-n-Light catalogue. I would also recommend the Eastern Catholic monograph, "Shown to be Holy: An Introduction to Eastern Christian Moral Thought", which, while intended for catechist formation, is actually very good for teens (I use it with my 7th grade ECF class). It also comes with a companion facilitators guide. Both are available through God With Us Publications.

Glory to Jesus Christ!

I don't think this applies directly to what you are asking but is peripherally a note.

The Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese in North America came up with a very good idea and I would like to pass it to our friends in the Byzantine Churches here in the US and Canada. The Archdiocese has created an excellent 8 page or so long Youth Newsletter called "The Cross and the Quill" published by the Teens of the Archdiocese. It is published only on the internet site and may be found at www.aaron.org

I think that you will find it a good example of what a Byzantine Catholic Diocese or Eparchy could produce to encourage byzantine spirituality with their youth. Imagine what could be done with discussion groups in ECF with a monthly publication like this ---what a youth evangelization tool!

Your brother in Christ,
Thomas

Thomas ---

Excellent idea. Such a thing may be more stimulating than the 'teen' section of our eparchial newspaper. Having something like what you suggest that actually deals with 'Byzantine' spirituality would be something new and wonderful for our church.

Lori,

I have been teaching high school ECF at my parish for four years. I would second Stuart's suggestions. However, regardless of the reading materials which you decide to use, I would strongly suggest that you personally witness to your students by explaining to them how Jesus Christ and the Church have made (and are continuing to make) a difference in your life. You could do this when discussing the Sacraments, Holy Scripture, Liturgy, etc. For example, last year we focused on the Sacraments, and I discussed how participating in confession has helped me overcome spiritual weaknesses and deepen my faith. Of course, you don't want to just talk about yourself, but opening up to your students may help them to open up.