Christian Theology and Social Teachings

Bible Authorship

• Various authors wrote the Bible over centuries
• Prophets, kings, apostles, and disciples contributed
• Hebrew leaders and prophets wrote the Old Testament
• Apostles and early Christians wrote the New Testament

Resilience Risk Factors

• Optimism, social support, and a sense of purpose are not risk factors for resilience, but rather promote it
• Lack of support and/or purpose can be risk factors

Jesus' Death

• Christians believe Jesus died to atone for humanity's sins
• This offered salvation and reconciliation with God
• Death and resurrection are central to Christian faith

Freedom

• Freedom is the ability to act, speak, or think without external restraint
• Individuals are responsible for their actions

Sin

• Sin is any thought, word, or deed contradicting God's will
• Sin separates humanity from God

Catholic Social Teachings

• Life and Dignity of the Human Person
• Call to Family, Community, and Participation
• Rights and Responsibilities
• Option for the Poor and Vulnerable
• Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers
• Solidarity
• Care for God's Creation

Gospel Authors

• Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John wrote the Gospels
• They were apostles and disciples

Parable Definition

• A parable is a simple, metaphorical story
• Used to illustrate moral or spiritual lessons
• Often told by Jesus

Golden Rule

• "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" (Matthew 7:12)

Old and New Testaments

• The Old Testament is foundational to the New Testament
• The New Testament fulfills prophecies and promises from the Old Testament
• Particularly with the coming of Jesus Christ

Moral Decisions

• Moral decisions are based on right/wrong
• Consideration of ethical principles and values

Gospel Transmission

• Passed down through oral tradition and written texts (Gospels)

Jesus' Nature

• Jesus is fully God and fully human

Pentecost

• The Holy Spirit descended on the apostles at Pentecost
• Empowered them to spread Jesus' teachings
• Considered the birth of the Church

Holy Trinity

• Father, Son (Jesus), and Holy Spirit

Creed Definition

• A creed is a formal statement of religious beliefs or doctrines
• Summarizing key aspects of a faith

Catholic Creeds

• Nicene Creed and Apostles' Creed

Covenant Definition

• A covenant is a sacred agreement or promise between God and humanity

Pope Francis on Faith

• Pope Francis emphasizes living faith through love, compassion, and service to others, especially the poor and marginalized

New Covenant

• God's promise of salvation through Jesus Christ
• Replaces the Old Covenant
• Offers a new relationship with God through grace

Fruits of the Holy Spirit

• Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23)

Seven Traits of Being Human

• Rationality
• Free will
• Emotional depth
• Capacity for relationships
• Spirituality
• Moral agency
• Creativity

Prayer Requirements

• Sincerity, focus, and openness to God's will
• Prayerful heart

Prayer Definition

• Communication with God (praise, petition, confession, thanksgiving)

Sign Definition

• A sign represents or points to something else with a specific meaning

Symbol Definition

• A symbol represents an idea or concept with deeper, layered meaning

Routine vs. Ritual

• Routine: regular, habitual action
• Ritual: ceremonial act, symbolic, imbued with meaning

Sacraments and Symbols

• Baptism – water
• Eucharist – bread and wine
• Confirmation – chrism oil
• Penance/Reconciliation – confession
• Anointing of the Sick – oil
• Holy Orders – laying on of hands
• Matrimony – wedding rings

God's Grace

• God's unearned, undeserved love and favor enabling salvation and holiness

Image of God

• Humans created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26-27)

Constructive Conflict Resolution

• Active listening
• Compassionate communication
• Finding common ground
• Seeking resolution through collaboration

Poor Decision-Making

• Influenced by emotions, biases, or limited information
• External pressures, fear, lack of reflection

Natural Law

• Human beings have an innate sense of right and wrong
• Discovered through reason and observation of nature

Self-Esteem

• Regard or confidence a person has in themselves and abilities

Healthy Friendship Traits

• Trust
• Respect
• Good communication
• Supportiveness
• Shared values
• Fun and enjoyment