FROSH & SOPHS: Optional Study Guides

Gentlemen,

As promised, your optional study guides are available at the link below:

http://stjoesreligion.wordpress.com/2008/12/18/freshmen-sophomore-optional-study-guide/

A scantron form was provided in class on Thursday, Dec. 18, 2008. If you lose your sheet, or need another one, please see me on Monday, Jan. 5, 2009.

Remember, this is optional. You do not have to do it. If you choose to do this review packet, and it helps your grade, I will add it to your Q2 grade. If it hurts your grade, you can ask me not to add it via e-mail.

This is open notes, open textbook(s), open Bible, open internet (use the sites provided on this website), open telephone (call a friend). See what you know first before using the other resources.

This is due Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2009.

Enjoy the Holidays!
Mr. McGravey

SOPHOMORES: Study Guide

The test will mainly cover the following information:

1. Matthew 1-2 (do not worry about the details of the genealogy, but more so the structure).

2. Luke 1, 2, & 3:1-20

3. The background information to Luke's Gospel (the notes, pages 1-5). The following are points of interest:

Theophilus
Educational Background to Luke
The historical accuracy of Luke's Gospel
Luke & St. Paul
Terms / words that Luke uses in comparison to Mark or Matthew's text
Ideas of Luke's Christology
The Magnificat
Liberation Theology


4. The Infancy Notes (pgs. 1-9 that were reviewed in class). Be able to compare and contrast the two stories - either in essay form or multiple choice questions.

For example, I may give you an example on the test like this:
In which Gospel account are we told that Herod is the king?
A. Matthew
B. Luke
C. Both
D. Neither

REMINDER: Service Requirement

Gentlemen,

Please remember that your 1 hour of service is due by Thursday.

Your paper is subsequently due on Friday, no later than 3:00 PM. It must be delivered to my hands personally. No e-mail, no flash drive...a paper copy!

If you're still in need of service, check out the Prep's daily service opportunities:

http://www.sjprep.org/jesuit/service/opportunities/daily.html

Also, on Saturday morning (tomorrow) from 10:30 AM - Noon, you can participate at the Prep with the "Operation Swim."

Thanks,
Mr. McGravey

Freshmen: Study Guide -- JUDAISM

- Habiru Clan & Hebrew

- Polytheism to Monotheism

- Bible Information
o The Torah
o The Prophets
o The Writings

- The Torah/Pentateuch:
o Genesis
o Exodus
o Leviticus
o Numbers Deuteronomy

- Genesis:
o Abraham & Sara
o Isaac and Rebekah
o Jacob and Rachel/Leah
o 12 Sons of Jacob; Who is Joseph? What's so important about him?


- 500 B.C.E – Why is it significant in relation to Abraham and Sarah's story?

- Exodus:
o The Moses Story
o Slavery in Egypt
o The Plagues (know the last one and significance) and know one explanation (scientific/from God)
o 10 Commandments / Mt. Sinai

- Leviticus:
o What does it have within it?

- Numbers:
o What is written here?

- Deuteronomy:
o 2nd Set of 10 Commandments

- Idea of Clan god(s)
o Which god/God comes to Abraham and Sara?
o Moses?

- History & Judaism
o How is it all tied together?

- God Almighty / El Shaddai

- Learning to Believe in One God (Practical to Ideological Monotheism):
o God is the God – development
o God brings about idea in slow process
o Divinely inspired: move from many gods to one God

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- Looking back: Abraham called by 1 God, but may not have recognized

- 5 Points of Jewish Faith & Description

- 4 Points of “The Place of People in Jewish Faith” & Description


- What is the Sabbath? When does it take place?

JEWISH CELEBRATIONS & FESTIVALS:

- Autumn Celebrations
o Rosh Hashanah
o Yom Kippur
o Sukkot

- Winter Celebrations
o Hannukkah
o Purim

- Spring Celebrations
o Pasah / Passover. What is the Sedar meal?
o Shavu’ot

- Types of Jewish Belief/Practice:
o Conservative
o Orthodox
o Reformed
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- 3 Editors of Jewish Scripture:
o Yahwist
o Elohist
o Priestly

IMPORTANT

A part of the essay question (specifically, the website), has been changed.

Please print another copy if necessary.

Thank you,
Mr. McGravey

Two Things

Two Things:

1. Homework calendar has been updated.

2. Freshmen & Sophomore service project essay is posted at the link to the right.

Matthew's Test; Pt. 2 / Tuesday, Nov. 25

Know, especially, the notes from Matthew 1-2

- The Genealogy
- The angel to Joseph in the dreams
- Know the birth story
- Herod's involvement
- Why do they go to Egypt? Significance?

******************************************
[This is NOT in your text]
Angels & Demons:

-Birth of Jesus
• Matthew 1:18ff:
• “…an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’ All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet:”

• Order of God's Creation in relation to Angels (Angels: Day 5, Humans: Day 6)

Hierarchical Organization
• St. Thomas Aquinas & St. Denis:
• Divide angels up into three hierarchies each of which contains three orders

Functions of Angels
- What are the functions? What is their primary function?

• Gabriel:
– First seen in Daniel
– What does Gabriel announce?

New Testament Demons:
• During the N.T. Era: the idea of 2 spiritual kingdoms has been clearly established.

• Jesus: References to Satan as “the Prince of this world” [John 12:31]; Other mentions?

-Angels in the New Testament


Angels in Babylonian Literature
***********************************

Structure of Matthew's Gospel
- Chiastic Structure
- Narrative (N), Discourse (D) layout...

Islam:
• Foundations
– Faith in Allah
– Faith in his prophet, Muhammad (the last and greatest of prophets)
– Observance of the 5 Pillars

Foundational Belief
• “There is no God by Allah, and Muhammad is his prophet”
• No other god stands besides Allah

Ancestry:
- Be able to re-write the "Abrahamic Family Tree"
• Direct line of Abraham (Ibrihim) and Islam through the Patriarch, Ishmael
• Who is Isaac?
• Who is Sarah?
• Who is Hagar?
• What was the promise given to Hagar? Who is the fulfillment of this promise?
• What city becomes important to both Judaism and Islam? What city is considered the center for Islam today?

History
• 622 C.E. (A.D.) - brought to life in Saudi Arabia
• People were struggling with a variety of different cultural things -- what are those 4 things?

• Contact with Judaism and Christianity, had occurred for centuries before (even to the point of war)
– Christians for Near East, Egypt, and N. Africa

• Muhammad’s message in the beginning: not monotheism

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Differences & Similarities Between Islam/Christianity/Judaism:
- What are the differences & Similiarities?
- How do these various religions treat Jesus?

Quran / Koran
- What is its importance?
- Who provides it?
- Who shares it with the people of the Arabian Penninsula?


Muhammad
• “The Seal of the Prophets” & 3 Other titles given in class lecture
• Born 571 C.E. in Makkah (Mecca)

• Parents of Muhammad: were members of the Quraish, a leading tribe in the city

• Age 9 - What happens to Muhammad?

• Age 25: Hired by wealthy woman to manage business. What happens between the woman and Muhammad?
-----------------------------------------------
Muhammad: Messenger of Allah

7 Acheivements of Muhammad
- What are they?

The Dome of the Rock & The Ka'ba

The Quran
• Islam: cannot be understood without the Quran
• The Hadith

4 Major Themes of the Quran:
- What are they?

Marriage
• There is no ritual, just a signing of a piece of paper and traditionally, a recitation from the Quran
• Men: allowed to have 4 wives in traditional countries
• Men & Women can divorce


Supplemental Information Provided in Class on Wednesday, November 12, 2008.
- Information regarding Jihad / Qital
- This information is Darrell Cole’s ‘chapter eight’

Calendar Updates

Gents,

The homework calendar has been updated this afternoon for Sophomores.

The Freshmen calendar has been updated this afternoon.

Please make sure you complete your assignments on time.

Mr. McGravey

SOPHOMORES: Study Guide / Matthew Test 1

I will be available for questions after school in the pool on Thursday. There will be an optional review session after school on Friday. Please feel free to stop by, if needed, with your questions.

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Introduction to Matthew
**********************************
Historical Background to Matthew:

• When does he write? What does he rely on?; What three places are suggested as locations for his authorship?

Historical Context II:
• Christian Jews were driven out of synagogues in the 80's...Why?
– Jesus's Family into Egypt...Similarities to the O.T.? Why and who is important in these two texts?

Audience -- Who is Matthew's audience? How do we know this? Examples of Hebrew terms used by Matthew?

***********************************
Know the Beatitudes (Matt. 5:3-10)

5 Themes in Matthew [Discourses]
- You have read about the five discourses in your reading and we covered them in class.
- Make sure you are familiar with the general concepts your textbook presents and what was presented in the class notes.
- KNOW IN DETAIL: The themes covered in class. Specifically, we spent a good deal of time with THEME I, THEME III (7 Parables), etc.

************************************

Know the treatment of the 4th Century and the Old Testament:
1. Pelagius
2. Faustus
3. *St. Augustine
a. Be familiar with St. Augustine’s anthropology & his relationship with God

Know the notes regarding Jesus treatment of the law and how Matthew understood Jesus in comparison to the Pharisee’s approach to the Law.

Know the notes regarding Jesus’ instructions in Mark 10:5-15. What does Jesus instruct the disciples to do in Matthew’s gospel?

The Two Articles Provided:
1. “The Great Revolt”
2. “Jews in Roman Times”

** KNOW THE MATERIAL READ IN THE TEXTBOOK

Buddhism: Study Guide

The following is a statement from the Principal's Office as of 3:00 PM on Monday, Oct. 27, 2008:

"If we are closed this week, grades will be due on Wednesday, November 5 at 8:30 AM. ...

If you are planning a test for Wednesday, you may give the test on Thursday or Monday. Students need to know that you may be testing on a non-testing day. If they are made aware of this possibility, they will have plenty of time to prepare."

That said...IF, and that's an IF, school is closed on Wednesday, the test will be postponed until Monday, November 3, 2008.

------------------------------------------------------------------
Gentlemen: This is a brief overview of what we covered in class. Please review your notes for the information.
------------------------------------------------------------------

- Five Stages of Buddha’s Life as outlined in class (not in text book)
o Siddhartha Gautama
• Son of a Chief
- The “Enlightened one” – at what point in his life?
- Passes through 1st two stages of life
o What does he recognize as he lives with Kamala? The ferry-boat man?

- Age 29: What happens to Buddha? What does he do?
- Abandons Yoga and extreme asceticism (Stage II)
- Leaves wife and child (Stage III)
- Where does he then go?

***********************************************

313 Million Buddhists in today’s world;
- 558,000 in North America
- Can you identify some ‘famous’ American Buddhists?
Creation of Buddhism:
- When does this happen?
- How does this happen?
- Reaction in world of India/China?
o Be able to discuss India’s immediate reaction
o Does China initially accept Buddhism? What about the China of today? What about China and Tibet?
Your textbook explains the Buddha in a particular way.
- Explain how the Buddha is described.
- What are some of his qualities?
- What are some of his attributes?

- What is the primary concern of Buddhism?

Know the Four Noble truths.

Know the Eightfold Path
- What are all the elements of the Eightfold Path?

Views Points on Eightfold Path:
- Theravada
o What countries are they located in (map in notes)
- Mahayana
o What countries is this located in (see map in notes)

What is the “Way of the Buddha?”
- What are the differences of Hinduism and Buddhism?
- Rejection of Hinduism – What are the elements?


Buddhist Monks
- Be able to identify the different types of Buddhists monks, if I were to present pictures to you.
- How were they created?
- Why were they created?
- What was Buddha regarded as? (ie: his persona)
- Where are the majority of the monks today?
- What is their primary focus or duties?

Different kinds of Buddhism & their qualities:
- Many different offshoots
o Theravada
o Mahayana
o Tantric
o Zen
o Tibetan Buddhism (General things, NOT the article in the back of your notes. That will be a separate test).


Buddhist Scriptures (Know the short section found in your textbook)

Freshmen: the Dalai Lama & China

Gentlemen,

The following is a Time Magazine article from this week discussing the Dalai Lama's approach and struggle with China:
http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1853897,00.html?iid=perma_share

The following link is also about the Dalai Lama - his daily life through a series of pictures:
http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1723964,00.html

Enjoy!
Mr. McGravey

SOPHOMORES: Study Guide / PRD 8 ONLY

Test for 8th Period: Thursday, Oct. 23, 2008

The following information will be covered on the test:

Referring to page 10, you will be asked to answer questions regarding the two of the following Healing Miracles -
1. The healing of the leper
2. The healing of the hemorrhaging woman
3. The healing of the deaf-mute

Referring to page 10, you will be asked to answer questions regarding the the following exorcisms -
1. The raging possessed man in the Gentile territory of Gedara


Referring to page 10, you will be asked to answer questions regarding the one of the following nature miracles -
1. Calming of the storm
2. Walking on water

You will also be responsible for the following chapters in Mark, specifically, the points outlined in class: Mark 14 & Mark 15

You will be responsible for the shorter version of Mark 16.
*****************************************************************
You should also pay attention to the following pages in your NOTES:
Page 10 (just the aforementioned miracles), page 11, pages 13 - 15.

- Know how Mark defines Jesus (in relation to John's Gospel)
- Know how Mark identifies and defines the Messiah
- Know the Paschal Mystery
- Know the outline of Jesus' final hours (pg. 14 of notes):

1. Conspiracy (14:1-2)
2. Woman anoints Jesus at Bethany (14:3-9)
3. Judas’ Betrayal (14:10-11)
4. Preparations for Passover Supper (14:12-16)
5. Last Supper (14:17-25)
6. Gethsamane (14:26-52)
7. Before the Sanhedrin (15:53-72)
8. Jesus and Pilate (15:1-20)
9. Crucifixion (15:21-47)

You do not need to know the chapters and verses, but you do need to know the CORRECT order of the events.

- Know about our discussion of Judas - how he differed from others, what his responsibilities were in relationship to the disciples.
- Know our brief discussion about Gnosticism and Gnostic gospels
- Know what happens at the Last Supper (Mark 14)

SOPHOMORES: Study Guide / PRDs 4, 5, & 7

Test for 4th, 5th, & 7th Periods: Monday, Oct. 27, 2008

The following information will be covered on the test:

Referring to page 10, you will be asked to answer questions regarding the two of the following Healing Miracles -
1. The healing of the leper
2. The healing of the hemorrhaging woman
3. The healing of the blind man (Mark 10:46)

Referring to page 10, you will be asked to answer questions regarding the the following exorcisms -
1. The man in the synagogue in Capernaum


Referring to page 10, you will be asked to answer questions regarding the one of the following nature miracles -
1. Calming of the storm
2. Feeding of over 4,000+ people (Mark 8:1)

You will also be responsible for the following chapters in Mark, specifically, the points outlined in class: Mark 14 & Mark 15

You will be responsible for the shorter version of Mark 16.
*****************************************************************
You should also pay attention to the following pages in your NOTES:
Page 10 (just the aforementioned miracles), page 11, pages 13 - 15.

- Know how Mark defines Jesus (in relation to John's Gospel)
- Know how Mark identifies and defines the Messiah
- Know the Paschal Mystery
- Know the outline of Jesus' final hours (pg. 14 of notes):

1. Conspiracy (14:1-2)
2. Woman anoints Jesus at Bethany (14:3-9)
3. Judas’ Betrayal (14:10-11)
4. Preparations for Passover Supper (14:12-16)
5. Last Supper (14:17-25)
6. Gethsamane (14:26-52)
7. Before the Sanhedrin (15:53-72)
8. Jesus and Pilate (15:1-20)
9. Crucifixion (15:21-47)

You do not need to know the chapters and verses, but you do need to know the CORRECT order of the events.

- Know about our discussion of Judas - how he differed from others, what his responsibilities were in relationship to the disciples.
- Know our brief discussion about Gnosticism and Gnostic gospels
- Know what happens at the Last Supper (Mark 14)

SOPHOMORES

Sophomores

Please remember that your BLUE HW packet is due on Monday, Oct. 27, 2008.

Eighth period - please place this either in my mailbox, or bring it to room 201 after the conclusion of eighth period.

SOPHOMORES: Study Guide - Mark's Gospel (I)

Gentlemen,

The FOLLOWING LINK is the study guide for the Mark's Gospel material:

Mark's Gospel Review

If you have any questions, please e-mail me ASAP or see me Tuesday morning.

Thank you,
Mr. McGravey

FRESHMEN: Hinduism Study Guide

**REMINDER: There will be an optional review session at 2:35 PM - 3:15 PM on Tuesday, Oct. 14. Please bring your questions if you have any!

**Please note that the test will cover pages 123-133.

1. Know the vocabulary indicated on the pages above.

2. Know what the "Hindu Concept of Self" is -- Atman, how it relates to Brahman?
- What is it?
- How is it defined?
- Describe its elements.
- Is it re-incarnated? Is the personality of a person re-incarnated?

3. Moksha

4. Law of Karma: Be able to explain this to me. What is it? How does it work? How does it affect your Atman?

5. The Hindu Ways to union with the Ultimate Reality: The 4 Different Types of Yoga.
- Through Thought

- Through Love
** What are the 4 types of relationship with the Brahman in this Yoga?

- Through Work

- Through Psychological Experiment / Examination

- Be able to describe the different types listed above.

6. The 4 Life Stages: Be able to explain them to me. Give me as much detail as you can about the four different stages.

7. Be able to recognize what the "life-cycle" rituals are.

8. Be able to talk about Sacred Cows, Morality, & Scripture (Smirti, Shruti) -- also Vedas, Brahmanas, & Bhagavad Gita. --> Be able to define those.

9. Also, recognize the information from the video (about Veranasi -- Ganges, Sheeva, Ganga, Holy City/City of Light, etc.

10. Know the map provided in the packet of notes (India & surrounding countries)

Freshmen: Slow your Breathing -- Article

http://www.naturalnews.com/023327.html

The link above explains the benefits of being able to slow your breathing down...just don't do it alone!

Mr. McGravey

FRESHMEN: CNN's latest story on the Dalai Lama

Gents,

You may want to read this story on the Dalai Lama. Though we're still working on Hinduism, we will be exploring Buddhism and discussing the Dalai Lama in the weeks ahead.

Thank you,
Mr. McGravey

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/08/28/dalai.lama/index.html

HW CALENDAR UPDATED

Gentlemen,

The homework calendar has been updated. Please make sure your homework is done on a nightly basis, so you are prepared for any upcoming quizzes and tests.

Thank you. Mr. McGravey

SOPHOMORES: Dr. Peter W. Singer Article

Sophomores,

Here is a copy of the article we looked at in class the other day (Wednesday). Take the time and read over the article. It's something that affects the world daily, despite it's horrible nature.

Download Here: http://stjoesreligion.wordpress.com/2008/10/03/singer-article/

Thanks,
Mr. McGravey

Freshmen: Hinduism Article

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7643373.stm

Gents,

Check out that article for a story from the BBC. A Hindu Temple was destroyed over the last week...A video is also available so you may hear the BBC broadcast of what happened.

Mr. McGravey

Sophomore Test: Sept. 30, 2008

** REFER TO PAGE 2 of the provided packet of notes ("Introduction to the New Testament/Notes"). That is the study guide for the test. The following study guide will also HELP in your preparations:

- Difference between Disciple & Apostle
- "Jesus' Public Life Terminates with:"
- Apostles leave Jerusalem and scatter throughout Mediterranean world

- Christian Writings & Their Acceptance:
* Geographical Proximity
* Chronological Proximity
* An early return of Christ
[Be able to explain what these mean and give an example]

- Criteria / Standards for Accepting Christian Writings as Sacred Scripture:
* First, apostolic authorship/origin
* Second, addressed to a particular community
* Third, conformity with beliefs of the faith
* Fourth, continuous use of a writing in worship services

DATES in relationship to scripture:
- 200 AD
- 400 AD
- 1546 [Council of Trent]; Jesuits important here

KNOW the following Non-Christian Historians/Writers:
- Flavius Josephus
- Suetonius
- Tacitus
- Pliny the Younger
(This info. is in your notes, accept for Suetonius - please find further information on pages 31-32 of your textbook).

** Be able to identify a passage from one of the historians/writers mentioned above.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Hellenism
- Be able to define Hellenism (according to the provided photo-copied chapter)
- Be able to explain Hellenization
- Be able to explain Religious Pluralism in light of Hellenism & the Christian expansion throughout the Mediterranean World

FRESHMEN: Study guide for Monday's Test

** Be familiar with our brief discussion of The Chosen.

** Make sure you've read all the reading for this test! Questions will be taken from the reading! The calendar is to the right of this post... Make sure you know the vocabulary.**

- Sam Huntington (Political Theorist) -- Relation of religion in society, politics, etc. Separation of Church and State.
- Identify the different types of governments in relation to religion (Democracy/Republic, Communism/Dicator, & Theocracy)
- Religion in the United States.

- What is religion?
* People experience religion all around them
* People grow up in certain religions
* People wonder about religion b/c of how it influences certain aspects of life.
* People ask: "what is the meaning of life?"

----------
- What is the "big mystery"?
- Oral traditions & Myths --> Revealed Texts & Scripture

- The role of science in relation to religion.
- 14th - 15th Century disagreement with the Christian Church: Significance (eg: Galileo)

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Theology:
- St. Anselm's definition
- Mr. McGravey's definition

- Creed, Code, Cult (& definitions): Examples in Christianity

----------
12 "Elements of Prehistoric Religions"
- Be able to identify them and explain them.

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Be able to write a brief essay on the general attributes that were discussed in class regarding the world religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam).

--------
**If you have ANY questions, please e-mail me, or see me on Monday morning in the religion office (second floor across from room 211).**

Sophomore Review: Thurs. / Fri. Test

Book of Revelation:
- Know the two theories: 1) Rome & Nero and/or (2) Jerusalem
- What do the four horses represent?
- Know chapter 3, the notes on chapter 3, and the significance of the Letter to Philadelphia
- Is the text an apocalyptic text or an interpretive text?

Sacraments:
- General Background
- Be able to identify which "group" the various sacraments belong to
- Be able to identify various scripture passages & the sacraments which correspond to said passages
- Know the four (4) necessary components for the sacraments to be valid
- Be able to discuss the differences between the early church sacraments vs. the modern church sacraments (specifically regarding baptism, eucharist, and marriage).

Baptism:
- Know the necessary requirements / formula for the sacrament
- Know the O.T. & N.T. references for baptism
- Be able to identify the understanding of "Original Sin" and baptism
- How does baptism make us part of the priesthood of believers?

Eucharist:
- Know the necessary requirements / formula for the sacrament
- Know the relationship between ordained men and the sacrament
- Be able to identify the relationship between the rise in the world's population & the decrease in the ordained priesthood. Where is the biggest increase and why?
- Know the difference between Transubstantiation & Consubstantiation
- Know the differences between the Catholic Church teaching, John Zwigli, Martin Luther, and John Calvin.
- Recognize the steady decline in the number of individuals who attend weekly liturgy within the U.S. and Europe.

Make sure all of your readings have been completed at this point.

Freshmen Review: Joshua & Judges

* Friday, May 23, 2008: Test Date *

- CHAPTER 5 FROM YOUR TEXT BOOK [pgs. 127-151]. Questions will be taken from the information given in your textbook; therefore, make sure you have completed all the assigned reading and homework assignments.

___________

- God's relationship to his people when they arrive at the Holy Land & then when they enter
- Defends against enemies, corrects the Israelites against sin, and (eventually) gives them strong leaders/king(s)

- Some Stories: Naomi & Ruth (Intro. Material Only) AND David/Johnathon (details)

- Generalities of Joshua & Judges:
- What time periods do they cover?
- What are some of the major stories?
- Theological Themes - where are they also found?
- Who was their main adversary?
- Josh. & Jud.: Give different accounts as to how they enter/conquer the H.L.
- Be able to list the characteristics of the two texts (combined)

Specifics: Joshua -->

- Joshua's name/meaning
- Where does the story pick up at?
- What does the book specifically discuss?
- How is Joshua like Moses? What does he use? What characteristics/abilities does Joshua have that Moses had as well?
- Is he real? No support for massive destruction @ Jericho. The book is one of "religious history".
- Expectation: To continue the covenant...
- Who does Joshua pray to when entering a battle? Why? Joshua 1:5.

- Look at Joshua 2 specifically. What happens in the story? Who are the major characters? What happens at the end of Chapter 2? How does it conclude? What is the sign in the window of the home? What does it represent (think Passover)?

- They enter Jericho, by crossing over what body of water? What or who stops the waters of the Jordan River? What is this person/'thing' held within? Is it a miracle? Earthquake? Legend/Myth?

- Jericho: the oldest city. How are the walls taken down (2 theories)?
- The city of "Ai" - what happens? Who is the military leader? What happens to him? Why? What's the underlying theme?
- Destruction/Looting -- Why? What is the Hebrew word? Aramaic word? People put their trust in God.
- Seems immoral today -- but a modern theory can be applied, what is this theory called? Remember, there are 7 Criteria.
- The end of Joshua: Two Chapters: what are the two speeches about? Why is this done? What city do they meet in? Why is this significant?

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THE BOOK OF JUDGES:



- 1200 - 1030 BC: From death of whom to when?
- Where do these Judges come from?
- Function (x3)?

- Cycle of Apostasy...what is it? Where is it found? Who are the key figures? Does it repeat?

- "More Debauchery" --> Baals and Astares - what is the human relationship with these gods and the people? What about the Israelites?
- Is it an Abandonment of God? Why or why not?
- Similarities between Canaanite religion and Judaism?
- Can humans manipulate the gods? Yahweh?

- Deborah
- What happens with her? The Midianites?

- Gideon - His story.
- "EVEN the Judges can do wrong"

- Samson
- Most famous; not sure if real or folklore
- He's a "Nazirite"
- Source of strength? What did he think it was? What was God's role in his strength?
- Examples of his strength (Joshua 14-16).
- Historical-Fiction -- What happens at the end of the book of Judges?
- Judges 21:25

Freshmen: Reminder

[The following was an e-mail sent to the class on Wednesday, May 7, 2008:]

Gentlemen,

A reminder - projects are due on Monday. Please make sure all editing and so forth is completed by Friday afternoon at the Prep - or, if you have the ability to do so at home - by Sunday evening.

Further, remember to complete ALL aspects of the project, including the small research portion at the end of the directions. Use your textbook and the library to come up with the background information for this portion of the project. YOU MAY NOT use Wikipedia. If you do so, you will automatically be given a failing grade. You will be expected to provide a one page bibliography of your short research at the conclusion of your presentation.

Mr. McGravey

A copy of the assignment is posted to the right of this post.

Sophomores: Galatians Study Guide

Here is a BASIC outline of the Galatians material:

- Know the life/timeline of Saul/Paul
- Know about Paul before and after his conversion. How did he describe himself? What did he do?
- Know Paul's relationship with Peter & James, Titus, and Barnabas.

Galatians:
- Know the standard layout of ancient letters
- Date of authorship
- Supposed place of authorship
- Know a bit about the region of Galatia
- What type of people were typically in the Gentile regions? In Judea/Jerusalem?
- What is the big issue of Paul's letter to the Galatians? How does Paul address it?
- What is Paul's issue with circumcision? The law?

Church:
- What was the model of Peter & Paul's church in the early Christian community?
- What tends to be the model of Church today?
- What's the difference?
- What is the discussion Paul articulates when presenting partiality among church leaders (ie: Peter and James)?

Freshmen: O.T. Test III

HERE IS A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THIS WEEK'S TEST INFORMATION:

- Why did the Israelites end up in Egypt?
- What happened to the Israelites in Egypt?
- What is the theory behind Joseph & the Pharaoh / Monotheism? Akenaton? Ramses II?

Exodus:
- Who is Moses?
- What happens to him at birth? Who actually raises him?
- KNOW his family members
- KNOW his wife and sons (Gershom & Joshua)
- Where does Moses flee to following his murder of the Egyptian guard? Why does he flee?
- Who does he marry?
- What does he encounter in the desert?
- Know Moses 4 arguments as to why he should not be chosen by God to represent the Israelites to the Pharaoh.
- ALSO: Know the information regarding the Plagues...
* The Exodus Plagues; Psalm 78 & 105 (Be able to compare the three accounts)
- What are the scientific reasons? Can you explain 3-5 details about each one of the reasons?
- Know the additional laws (basic summaries) in the chapters we reviewed following chapter 20 of Exodus.

Leviticus:
- Essay (see link to the right -->)
- Background information of Leviticus
- Purpose of Leviticus

Numbers:
- Background Information
- Continues the Mosaic Laws
- Discusses further historical details (about the Israelites in the desert) and the number of people: 1.2 million in the desert
- Numbers 20: Moses is instructed to talk to a rock in order to receive water from God. Impatiently, Moses doesn't follow the directions, and taps the rock twice. Thus, some argue this is the reason why Moses was not allowed into the Holy Land. *What is another, and more plausible, reason for Moses' non-entry into the Holy Land?

Deuteronomy:
- Deuteronistic Historian / Editor
- Chapters 31 (Joshua's appointment) and 34 (Moses Death)
- What is the significance for this book?

** What, if any, is the historical evidence for 6,000 or 600,000 or 1.2 million people crossing the Sinai Desert/Peninsula?

Sophomores: Study Guide

In addition to what was presented for review in class, here is a BRIEF study guide for this week's test:

1. Know the following places and importance:
- Damascus
- Jerusalem
- Antioch
- Caeserea

2. Know the following people and their importance:
- Peter
- James
- Stephen
- Paul

3. Know the first Gentile convert

4. Know the complexities between Jewish-Christian and Gentile-Christian. How does this play out in the story of Cornelius? How about Acts 15 and Galatians 2?

5. Know the type/style of book Luke-Acts is. Who is Theophilus?

6. Know the stories surrounding the conversion of Saul/Paul.

7. Know the importance of picking Matthias as the additional disciple/apostle.

8. Know the four features of the Early Christian Church in Jerusalem (pg. 5 of notes).

9. Know about the life of Stephen and what happens to him. Why are the disciples constantly getting in trouble (pg. 6)?

10. Know Peter's interaction with Cornelius. What's important about this story? Why was this difficult for Peter to deal with? At the end of the story, what happens to Cornelius and his household?

11. Be able to discuss the Council at Jerusalem and James' letter to the Gentiles. Who is responsible to deliver the letter? Where does the letter go?

12. Know the cities on the map (pg. 10) -- to whom Paul wrote to. Nicea -- importance?

13. Know the structure of ancient letters; namely, Paul's letter to Philemon. What is the letter about? What is its structure?

14. Know the troubles that the Jews encounter early on in Rome. What happens at the end of Acts -- where are the Jews then (chap. 28)?

15. Know the details surrounding the Riot in Ephesus. What was the significance? Who are the main characters? What do we learn about the society in Ephesus at this particular time?

16. Why is Paul arrested in chapter 21? What is his defense?

17. Know the answers the the questions on pg. 9c.

18. Know also the journey of Paul in chapter 27 and 28 (pg. 9d.) as outlined for homework.

Freshmen: Study Guide - OT Test

You should know the general overview of the Pentateuch (Torah / First 5 Books) -- what is contained within the books. It was the general history which we reviewed in class beginning before spring break.

- Any of the assigned reading (from the HW calendar) could be covered on the test. Make sure to review the Genesis review questions from last week.
- Basic details regarding the background of the different O.T. editors
- Patriarchs / Matriarchs
- Joseph - to - Moses
- The Israelites & the Pharoah of Egypt (Akenaton)

Please know the following chapters as well:
- Genesis 39 - Joseph & Potiphar's Wife
- Genesis 41 - Joseph Interprets Pharaoh's Wife
- Genesis 42 - Joseph's brothers go to Egypt
- Genesis 50:15-26 - Joseph's Forgiveness & Death

- Exodus 1:8-22 - Israelites are Oppressed
- Exodus 2:1-25 - Birth of Moses & Flee to Midian

- Know the worksheets handed out in class. They are available on the website below:

OT Notes - Abraham/Isaac Stories

Mr. McGravey

John's Gospel Notes

Sophomores:

Here is the necessary information from John's Gospel. Please check the calendar nightly for updates to homework assignments, quiz info., and test information.

If you have any questions, please make arrangements to see me as soon as possible.
- Mr. McGravey

| View | Upload your own

8th Period - Sophomores

If you were in class today, disregard this message.

To those few students who, as instructed, saw me after the English exam today, thank you.

To those who failed to do so: today's test will be administered tomorrow, after school in room 312. Expect to be present between 2:40 and 3:30. This is the ONLY time this will be offered - unless you are sick tomorrow. Please make arrangements to be there tomorrow. Sports are not an excuse.

Thank you,

Mr. McGravey

Sophomores: Luke's Gospel Review

- Jesus’ Ministry:
o The prophet mentioned by Jesus at the start of his ministry

- H.S. at the beginning of his ministry

- Challenges Jesus faces
o Pharisees
o Towns people

- Jesus’ response:
o What was it in regards to his ministry?
o What two prophets does Luke match up against?

- Luke 4:31-44 & Events @ Capernaum

- Luke 5:1-11 & miraculous catch of fish

- Healing of a leper 5:12-16

- 5 Controversies with the Pharisees

- The Paralytic

- Call of Levi
o Compared to Mark 2:16

- Who are the Herodians?

- Role of the Holy Spirit
o 3 stages in Jesus’ life

- Where is the H.S. within Luke’s Gospel – examples of verses

- H.S. directs/guides Jesus in his ministry
o H.S. begins his public ministry

- Prayer & Jesus’ ministry

- Parables
o Commonalities/common activities
o News of God’s reign

- Joy & Peace
o Lost sheep
o Lost coin
o Lost son (prodigal son)

- Parable of the Father’s Love

- Jesus as Compassionate Messiah

- Lazarus & the Rich Man

- Zacchaeus: tax collector

- Jesus as Universal Savor

- The ‘Gospel of Women’

Freshmen Catholicism II Review

- Catholic Liturgy & Scripture
o Hebrew Scriptural Reading
o Letter’s of Paul
o One of the Four Gospels

- Old Testament Relationship / Meaning

- How are the readings told?
o A, B, & C years
o Which year are we in?
o How does the O.T. relate to the N.T.?

- Elements of the Old Testament
o 1. God of Israel: not impersonal
o 2. Events of the O.T.: Not random
o 3. Prophets: Role of God’s messenger
o 4. History: Focused on the future
ß Who is the future?
ß What person?
o 5. God extends reign through peace & justice

- The Messiah
o Christos
o Christ
o “The Anointed One”

- Revelation
- Background of Judaism & O.T.
- Differences between Jewish and Christian understanding of the O.T.

- I. O.T. “What it’s worth…”
o A. Look as single revelatory experience
o B. Affirmation of God
o C. Message of the prophets & demand for social justice (Amos)

- II. Christian Church & Events of Hebrew History
o Proof of God’s existence
o Proof of God interacting

- St. Paul
o What are his parallels?
o N.T. understanding in relation to O.T.

- New Testament:
o diatheke
- The Word of God
- Catholic Church & the N.T.

- Generalizations of Scripture
o 1. No single portrait of Jesus
o 2. Views of Jesus
ß Christology for above
ß Christology from below

o 3. Understanding Jesus
ß Titles of Christ

o 4. Jesus: Wore Many Hats

o 5. Central: Jesus’ death & resurrection

o 6. Jesus is a human
- Church and Jesus

o Scripture = rich
o Speaks to every age
o Being Catholic and listening to scripture…

- Many Faces of Christ
- Synoptic Gospels vs. John
o Mark
o Matthew
o Luke
o * John *
o When were they written?
o What audience were they written for?
o What does the time and audience have to do with 21st Century American Catholics?

o Which Gospel is different than the others? How does the Gospel begin?
ß In the beginning there was the Word / and the Word was made flesh.
ß What does Word mean for the Gentiles and Jews?

- Christology
o Study of Christ
o Christos
o Logos

- Views of Jesus:
o Hypostatic Union
o Apollinarianism
o Nestorianism

Liturgical Calendar

Freshmen,

Here's a picture of the liturgical calendar. Please make your own version of this to be turned in on Monday. Standard paper size, as big as possible.

Thank you,
Mr. McGravey

Study Guides: Available for Download

Gentlemen,

Below is the link for the study guide. Please copy and paste this to your browser to redirect you to the download site.

http://stjoesreligion.wordpress.com/2008/01/07/mid-term-review-packets/

Sophomores - your study guide was added on Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2008 at 9:30 AM. My apologies for not being able to post it earlier.