1. What does it mean to be Catholic? Review your definition of religion and how you applied the definition to the Roman Catholic Church

2. Assess prior knowledge The Roman Catholic Church is the largest religious group in the world (>1 billion members) In your small group, answer the following together: ◦Who is the leader of the Catholic Church in the world? How is this leader chosen? ◦Who do we believe was the founder of the Church? ◦What is a Catholic worship service called? ◦What human beings (living, deceased) are significant in the Church?

3. Defining features of the RC church The Roman Catholic Church: Believes God is known in 3 persons (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) Can be traced to St. Peter and the apostles Challenges all members to spread the Gospel has seven sacraments Believes in transubstantiation Has special devotion to Mary and the saints Has a defined hierarchy with the authority to teach (known as the Magisterium) Values social justice, charity, mercy, hope (the resurrection of the dead, 2 nd coming )

4. What do Catholics believe about God? Our beliefs are summarized in the creeds ( Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed ) God: created everything has always existed wants to be known by us, through Jesus loves us- allows us to choose to love Him forgives us gives us His love through the sacraments of the Church

7. Sunday Eucharist In your small group, discuss Sunday Eucharist: What are things that you always see at Mass? What are things you always hear and do? Who is involved in Mass? Why is it required for Catholics to attend? What does the priest say before he proclaims the Gospel? What is the response?

8. Small group activity We participate in Mass to remember Jesus… but do we know Him? Complete the worksheet with your small group: “Jesus: How well do you know Him?” Use a Bible to help you!