Session 3 - The Problem of Sin
On one hand, we don’t want to depress the participants as they come to grips with the reality of sin. On the other hand, the goal of this session is to prod their consciences, and get them thinking about the prevalence of sin in their lives. This session also includes an allusion to the solution to the problem of sin, which will be dealt with in greater detail in the next session.
Agenda
5 min - Welcome and opening prayer
25 min - [Catechesis Video] Session 3 - The Problem of Sin - Part I
10 min - Break
15 min - [Catechesis Video] Session 3 - The Problem of Sin - Part II
30 min - Individual prayer time
5 min - Closing prayer and announcement
Catechesis Videos
Session 3 - The Problem of Sin - Part I - Fr. Jonathan Bakkelund
Session 3 - The Problem of Sin - Part II - Fr. Jonathan Bakkelund
Testimony Outline
Testimony Videos
Small Group Questions
Leader's Guide
Preparation tasks
- Make copies of the “Individual Prayer Handout” for participants.
Agenda variation
- In this session, there are no small groups or liturgies. Instead, there is a time of private prayer at the end.
- We recommend that participants don’t meet in small groups during this session. As we discuss sin and its prevalence in our lives, small groups often lead to inappropriate and uncomfortable discussion. Some people may unintentionally use this time to “confess” their sins to the group.
Individual prayer time
- This session may dredge up feelings of guilt as participants reflect on the prevalence of sin in their lives. We want to give them the time and space to bring their thoughts and feelings to the Lord.
- Option #1: After the second catechesis video, have everyone go to the church and spread out. Just make sure that on their way to the church you help them maintain a prayerful atmosphere.
- Option #2: Some parishes may want to go to the church for a time of Eucharistic Adoration. If you decide to do this, make sure you give them a little prep for the Eucharist and etiquette (especially for those who aren’t Catholic).
Supplies checklist
- Signs for directing people to the meeting location
- Refreshments (optional)
- Check-in list
- Podium or music stand
- Microphone, if needed
- Video presentation equipment (i.e. TV or projector)
- Handouts for individual prayer time
- Announcements: next session date
Setup checklist
- If needed, post signs to direct participants to where the session is meeting.
- Set up refreshments (optional).
- Put a podium or music stand up front for the witness speaker who is giving their testimony.
- Set up a TV or projector. Test the video before the session starts so you can troubleshoot, if needed.
- Set up chairs.
- If you have a larger group, set up a microphone in the front of the room.
- If necessary, set up confession areas for the post-session confession time.
- Meet with your volunteers shortly before the session begins. Review the agenda and pray with them.
