1. A simplified Discussion

2. Identity Formation Why Identity? We all need identity Christ formed the church identity If not actively formed, will be left to society Identity in Egypt and here

3. Identity Formation How can we form identity? Sunday Curriculum : 1. Gospel 2. Church 3. Moral 4. Spiritual

4. Identity -How we do it? Moral – Good people Gospel – Christians Prayer – Spiritual Church --- Coptic Orthodox

5. Identity -How we do it? Keep close to church seasons:- know and keep the cycle: Nyrouz : 9/11 followed by the Cross (9/27) Advent and Christmas (11/25 – 1/7) Theophany (1/19) Lent – HOLY week–Fifty days–Pentecost-fast of the apostles – feast of the apostles (July 12) Fast and feast of St Mary (8/7-8/22)

6. Liturgical cycle Advent and Christmas Lent, Holy week, Pentecost, fast and feast of the apostles Theophany Fast and feast of St Mary Nyrouz and the cross

7. Keeping the liturgical cycle Make sure to tell your children about the church seasons ahead of time. An icon of the season in a prominent place at home. Celebrate the season in all ways possible: Read the events of the season with your children Go to church Fast in fasting seasons or Listen to season music Eat different foods Celebrate the special saints of your family

8. Bible Servants are prepared by learning very carefully the purpose of scriptures ( St Athanasius) There should be an ongoing Bible study of specific books every year in the classes as well as a home Bible reading program

9. Keeping faith alive Share the faith stories: Parents should share their experiences of God’s help and miracles with their children early in their lives

10. Holy Spirit The information alone is not an orthodox concept Since the beginning the church job was to invite and entice: come & see. Therefore the curriculum should be an invitation (the Spirit and the Bride says come…) It is the spirit of the servant that would build the faith of the children

11. Grade ThemeFaithScripturesChurchVirtues Spiritual Life 1 st Revelation: The TrinityGospelBaptism Obedience & Sharing Prayer & The Word of God 2 nd Adoption: Christ The Patriarchs: Abraham Eucharist The 10 Commandme nts Offering 3rd3rd Reconciliation: Salvation The Patriarchs: Jacob Confession & Liturgy forgiveness Social Justice Repentance Introduction to Agpeya 4 th The Church The Patriarchs: Joseph The visible Church Relations with Others The Agpeya 5 th Sanctification: Sanctification Moses and Exodus Baptism Chrismation Confession Eucharist Sanctity of the body Fasting and Giving