Liturgical Calendar, Eucharist and Sunday Observance

• The Liturgical Calendar marks the Church's celebrations throughout the year.

Important Feasts & Seasons

• Christ the King ends the Liturgical Year.
• First Sunday of Advent starts the Liturgical Year.
• Ash Wednesday begins the Lenten Season.
• Baptism of Jesus ends the Christmas Season.
• Ordinary Time is the longest season in the Church.
• Feast of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal falls in Advent Season.

The Holy Eucharist

• The Eucharist is the center of Christian life.

What is the Eucharist?

• A remembrance of the Last Supper.
• A thanksgiving
• The word Eucharist means "to give thanks".
• The highest form of prayer.
• The receiving of Jesus' Body and Blood in faith.

Sunday Obligation & Worship

• Follows the Third Commandment: "Keep Holy the Lord's Day."

Why Sunday?

• Jesus resurrected on a Sunday.
• The Church was established on a Sunday (Pentecost).
• The Gospel was first preached on a Sunday.
• Christians gather for the Lord's Supper on Sunday.
• Christians give offerings on Sunday.

Sabbath (Day of Rest & Worship)

• Sabbath means "to cease" or "to stop."
• Described as a foretaste of Heaven.
• Without rest, people become slaves to work.

Personal Commitment in God's Plan

• Commitment can be defined as a pledge to dedicate oneself to something, a purpose, or someone significant.
• Most people fail not because of a lack of desire but because of a lack of commitment.
• Commitment helps determine where we are today.
• commitment guides in achieving future goals (1 year, 5 years, etc).
• Commitment keeps one on track when things go wrong.

Key Aspects of Commitment

• Self-Worth: Believing oneself to be valuable and deserving of respect.
• Reason: Using the God-given ability to think and make decisions.
• Freedom: Choosing wisely, especially in important life matters.
• Values: Living by what is important and meaningful.
• Education: Appreciating the value of studying and continuous learning.
• Self-Confidence: Believing in oneself and one's abilities.
• Commitment: Being dedicated to a cause, task, or activity.

Commitment in Different Aspects of Life

• Committed as One Nation: With the Spirit and the Church.
• Committed in Life & Beyond: With God Forever.
• Faithful Together: With Jesus and Mary.

How to Keep Yourself Worthy & Respectable

• Be a person of your word fulfilling promises and paying debts.
• Be a person of principles staying true to values.
• Control your emotions by being aware of feelings and managing them well.
• Be a person with a heart forgiving others and seek forgiveness when needed.

How to Use Your Freedom Well

• Never make decisions when upset or pressured.
• Weigh the pros and cons before deciding.
• Ask for advice and support from others.
• Pray to God for guidance and strength.

How to Use Your Power of Reason Well

• Stay informed about important issues.
• Express thoughts clearly in speech and writing.
• Follow logical reasoning when making decisions.

Self-Worth

• It is the internal sense of one's value as a person.
• It means you deserve love, respect, and belongingness from others.

Ezekiel

• He was a prophet and temple priest during the Babylonian rule.
• He had a vision of Israel as dry bones, symbolizing its restoration.
• He prophesied that God would give Israel a "new heart" and a lasting covenant of peace.
• Ezekiel 37:26-28 states God promises to be with His people forever.

Doctrinal Truths About Self-Worth

• God gifted us with free will to make decisions and be responsible for them.
• He respects our choices but also guides us according to His plan.
• People are created in God's image and likeness.
• Our worth comes from God, not from achievements, appearance, or what others think.
• People become God's covenantal people when they choose to do good.
• The covenant of love is binding; God offers love, and we must respond.

Forgiveness

• Forgiveness is a conscious decision to let go of resentment or revenge.
• It aims to restore relationships and bring inner peace.
• "The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong." – Mahatma Gandhi.
• Forgiveness is a choice.
• 68% of people want to practice forgiveness daily.
• 90% feel they need to forgive others more often.
• Daniel was a trusted servant in King Nebuchadnezzar's court.
• He prayed and confessed the sins of his people.
• He acknowledged that God's forgiveness is unconditional.
• Just as God forgives us, we should also forgive others.

Benefits of Forgiveness:

• Heals emotional wounds.
• Brings peace reducing anger and stress.
• Strengthens relationships.
• Stops a victim mentality and helps move forward in life.
• Improves mental health by lessening anxiety and depression.
• Reduces stress making life feel lighter and more positive.
• Sets a good example and inspires others to practice forgiveness.

Physical Health Benefits of Forgiveness:

• Lowers risk of heart attack.
• Reduces blood pressure.
• Improves cholesterol levels.
• Lessens pain and stress.

Forgiveness In Action

• Forgiveness does not change the past, but it changes the future.
• Forgiveness is choosing not to take revenge.
• Forgiveness connects people.

What to Say When Forgiving Someone:

• “I love you.”
• "I'm sorry.”
• “Please forgive me.”
• “Thank you.”