Blog Post #12: Church in the Present

1. The "What Makes us Catholic" book had guidelines for how Catholics should act. Prayer was a very important part of the steps within the book. It stated that people should make time for prayer at least once a day. They suggested an hour, which may be too much, but I believe praying each day is a good way to reflect. It also talked about spirituality and how it will lead you to good health. This is not something I believe, I think that your health can be taken into your own hands. Make sure to eat healthily and exercise and that will lead to a healthy body. The book did have some important messages.

2. Prior to this unit, I did not know much about Pope Francis. I learned a lot about how he works to improve society. He works directly with the people. Prior to becoming the Pope, Francis used to walk through the people on holidays. This is the type of mentality the Pope still holds that working alongside the people is the best way. Additionally, he speaks about his social and political standpoints. He wants to make a change in society. He believes that society should be more accepting then it is. Overall, I learned a lot about Pope Francis through these videos. 

3. Pope Francis is more accepting than most previous Popes. He is taking an initiative to make the Church more accepting of society. For example, the Church typically views divorce as a sin. Yet, Pope Francis thinks that one must follow they're conscious. They could later be reconciled by the Church. This is a different approach to something than the Church had ever taken before. Furthermore, Pope Francis has an emphasis on forgiving people for their sins. This can be applied to many rules the Church has had. The Pope wants to better society by doing things such as helping poverty. Pope Francis is working to better than the overall good of the Church and society. 

4. I hope the Church can evolve. Pope Francis is taking the first steps towards making the Church more accepting by making the Church forgiving. I hope that the Church can view fewer things as sins, and more as things as obstacles people are having to face. The Church should help people with their obstacles, rather than blaming them for them. If the Church can look at the bigger picture, they will be able to better help society. The Church has a lot of room for progress. 

Multimedia Source: 

This is an image of Pope Francis. He is bridging the old Church ideals to the ideals of the current world. 




Citation: Brockhaus, Hannah. “Pope Francis: Don't Use God to Defend Your Own Interests.” Catholic News Agency, Catholic News Agency, 7 Sept. 2016, www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-francis-dont-use-god-to-defend-your-own-interests-28392.

Blog Post #11: Bridge to Present

1. The Sisters of Notre Dame have a very rich and long history. They were very determined to educate young women. The Sisters have established so many schools throughout the United States. Additionally, they have schools worldwide. I also found it interesting the history they have at our school. I never knew they moved our school from San Jose to Belmont. They also live at school which is something I did not previously know. Overall, the Sister's have emphasized education for young women throughout their history. 

2. The alumnae panel was very interesting and informative. I enjoyed how each of the individuals who came were very different. They each had totally different Notre Dame experiences, which is something I think is special about our school. Each person can customize a unique experience that is suitable for them. Some will play sports, some will focus on academics, and others may join clubs since there is no one way to go through Notre Dame. Additionally, I found it interesting how strict it was back in the day. I consider the school to be very strict but realized today that the rules back then were even stricter. Luckily, the uniform has evolved. I am also glad they all felt prepared for college and the future after Notre Dame. Overall, I took a lot away from what they said and it was a very interesting class. 

3. The Notre Dame Community is a large community started many decades ago. First, of foremost, we have our class and sister classes. We then join a community with the entire school. The current school community serves as support for one-another. Additionally, are apart of a large community with alumni and the Sisters. It means that as a Notre Dame student, we support the education that has been passed down to us from the Sisters so long ago. We join all who have been empowered by the Sisters and are able to embody good morals through Catholicism. Overall, being apart of this community means being empowered and using your empowerment to help the world around you. 

4. So many things will leave Notre Dame with me when it is time to graduate. Notre Dame has strong values that will not ever leave me. I will always remember the importance of helping others. Volunteering is something I have grown a passion for, and hope to continue to do for a long time. Additionally, I have learned a lot of teamwork skills that I would hope to carry into my future with me. Teamwork and helping others are values I have taken from Notre Dame and will continue to instill in myself and others in the future. 

Multimedia source: 

I feel like this encaptures Notre Dame's message. It is important to be a good person on the inside. 



Citation:

Marlina. “How To Be A Truly Good Person..” Marlina, 15 Feb. 2017, marlina.info/how-to-be-a-truly-good-person/.

Blog Post #10: Growth

1. Which event that you learned about from the Church History textbook presentations did you find most interesting and why?
   
   
   I thought the Catholic Reformation was the the most interesting event in Church History. The Church evolved so much during this time period. The Jesuits, who have made many schools around our area, were formed. Additionally, sectors of religion, such as the Carmelites, were made for different groups of people. Many highly influential people in the Catholic Church began to write about their beliefs in order to spread their ideas. Many universities and schools were created because during this time period an emphasis on education was brought up. Without the Catholic Reformation, education was we know it, would not be the same.

2. Which person whom you learned about from the Church History textbook presentations did you find most interesting and why?
   
   
   I found St. Ignatius to be the most interesting person we studied. St. Ignatius was initially a solider, but he ended up getting injured. This led him to the decision to dedicate his life to God. He quit his job in the military, and began working to become a Priest. He went to study at the University of Paris, where he created religious fraternities to spread his messages about Christianity and God. This led to the creation of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits). The Jesuits have formed many educational institutions around the world. In fact, many of my friends attend St. Ignatius in San Frnacisio. It was very interesting to learn the history of the school my friends attend.

3. If you end up being known as an influential figure in history, what do you want to be remembered for?
   
   
   If I were to become an influential figure in history I would want to be remembered for the impact I made on in need populations in the world. Whether that be people who do not have access to education in third world countries, and helping kids who suffer from severe illness, I would want to be known for making on impact on people's lives. I think it is important to be remembered for something your passionate about, rather than something you do just for attention. I have always been passionate about helping children, therefore I would want to be remembered for that. Although, I am not an influential figure in history, I still want to better society to my best ability. It is not about being remembered for what you have done, it is about fulfilling your own desire to serve the world around you.
   
   

4. How have you personally experienced growth (either mentally, emotionally or spiritually) after your own challenges in life?
   
   
   Growing mentally and emotionally are a huge part of most people's childhood. It begins with overcoming fear which is something I have had to learn to cope with. I used to always live in fear of what could go wrong. I have grown to learn that although something could go wrong, it is important to live life to the fullest while you have it. Furthermore, I have learned had to deal with others in tough situations. It is often hard when people have conflicting ideals, but growing to learn that not everything will be perfect is very important. Overall, through experience and influence from others I have learned how to cope with all sorts of situations.
   
   
   Multimedia Source:
   
   
   As we grow we evolve into something. This image depicts how we all start out small, but grow and learn to adapt to the situations around us.
   
   
   
   
   
   “Growing the ‘Growth-Mindset.’” Raza Properties, 19 Oct. 2017, www.razaproperties.net/growing-growth-mindset/. 
   
   

Blog Post #9: Resilience

1. Could you ever see yourself sharing similar messages that your Letter Writer did? Why or why not? How would you share them?

The messages that St. James wrote were very important, and teach how to be a good person. St. James teaches the concept of being humble. Being humble teaches one not to be boastful and do not judge the people around them. He tells people that if they do not do this, then God will not work for them. Additionally, he states that one must dedicate themselves to God, in order to receive from God. I would share similar messages because they teach people to love their surrounding and be resilient towards their faith. I would probably share my messages on Instagram or Twitter because they are easy platforms to get your word across quickly. Overall, I support St. James' messages and would work to share them.

2. What were some new things that you learned from the Marian apparition projects presented in class (be specific)?

Prior to the Marian apparition projects, I knew Mary was a figure in the Catholicism, but not why she was so important. Mary was asked to be the Mother of Jesus and went through her entire life purely. Apparitions of her were seen in many places and had to be approved by the Church. Commonly, after the apparitions, many miracles occurred. During the apparitions, groups of people saw her, that later had to testify what they saw. Sometimes, the people had to come back day after day and saw the apparitions multiple times. I learned a lot about Mary through this project.

3. How did you see resilience at work within the Marian apparition that you researched?

The Marian apparitions presented many different acts of resilience. In the apparition, I researched, Our Lady of Knock, the fifteen people who saw Mary exemplified resilience by giving inquiry commissions. Once they gave the commissions, they continually had to stick by their word. Dr. Gilmartin showed resilience by researching all the commissions and miracles that had taken place. It took time and effort in order to get this apparition approved by the Catholic Church. Overall, everyone involved in getting this apparition approved showed resilience by investigating and displaying their knowledge to others.

4. Do you see yourself as being resilient? Why or why not?

In some cases I am resilient, in others, I am not. For example, with my school work, I am very resilient in sticking with my hard classes. Often times I feel like giving up, but I have stayed with them and efficiently get my work done. On the other hand, I gave up a sport that I had worked hard at for a long time. After nine years of swimming, I decided not to do it again because I do not enjoy it. Yet, I could have helped out my team and been resilient even though I do not enjoy it. Resiliency is something I would like to improve on even more in the future.

Multimedia Source: When I saw this image, I was immediately drawn to its message. When times get hard, it is important to bend with the difficulties, rather than break and give up. We all need to be more like this tree and bend when the wind hits us, not shatter into a million pieces.

Citation:

“Resilience & Adaptation to the ‘New Normal.’” BLACKASH, 11 Jan. 2018, blackash.com.au/adaptation-to-the-new-normal/.

Blogpost #8: Suffering

In what ways did the people you learned about during this unit suffer? What was their reaction to their suffering?

This unit, suffering was a prominent part of the stories we learned about. In the stories, the Apostle typically begins by preaching for what he believes in. Some agreed with the Apostles viewpoints, while others do not. The group of people who did not agree wanted the Apostle punished. The Apostles had to suffer through these acts of punishment. Some examples of the suffering the Apostles went through include imprisonment, stoning, and execution. They Apostles reacted to the suffering they were put through by continuing to stand up for what they believe in. The Apostles showed lots of resilience through fighting through their sufferings for their beliefs.

Which story from the Acts of the Apostles did you find most inspiring and why?

I found the story "The Storm" most inspiring. Everyone on the boat had lost hope in the midst of the storm. Paul had seen an Angel and believed this Angel would lead them out of the situation. Paul told all the sailors that the Angel was looking after them. I found this most inspiring because it is easy to lose hope in scary situations. Paul was able to hold onto that hope. It is also good to know that someone up above watches after all of us. By keeping your faith, God can lead one through anything.

How have you experienced challenges in your own life and how have you dealt with them?

One of the biggest challenges I have faced is learning how to manage stress and keep my anxiety levels low. My anxiety stems from stress and the events in the outside world. I cannot say I have completely dealt with it yet, but I have made tremendous progress. Through the advice of my parents, I have learned that there is more to life than stressing about the little things. I tend to worry about things that are very probable, so it is good for me to attempt to see the good in every situation. By looking for the good in all situations, I am able to have less anxiety and more happiness. Overall my battle against anxiety is a work in progress, that has made tremendous strides towards success.

Who are people that you can turn to in times of need and why?

In times of need, it is essential to have people in your life that you trust and are able to turn to for help. First and foremost, my parents are essential in times of need. I can always ask them for advice, and they know me better than anyone else. My parents are able to calm me down, and then help me move forward from the situation. Next, I turn to my two closest friends, who do not go to our school. They also know me very well and help me through hard times. Whenever I am sad, my friends know how to put a smile on my face. My Grandma and Grandpa are also great resources because they are very loving and kind. I have lots of people I am able to turn to when I need them.

Multimedia Source: I chose this image because all of the Apostles had lots of courage to keep faith in God and stand up for that they believed in. 

Citation: 

“Pinterest.” Pinterest, www.pinterest.com/.

Blog Post #7: Discipleship

• What did you learn about the original disciples from the group projects? (Be specific)

Prior to this project, I did know about disciples or apostles. From the research I did and the presentations of others, it was evident that the disciples had deep aspirations to follow their faith. The disciples were common people. They were not rich nor powerful in the government. This showed that Jesus was open to all people, and not prejudice based on social status. The disciples often were crucified, which showed the dedication they have for their faith. Overall, the disciples were people with normal lives who took time to dedicate themselves to Jesus.

• Which disciple did you find most interesting and why?

In my opinion, Peter was the most interesting disciple. Peter began his life as an average fisherman. After this, he was called upon by Jesus and began to worship him. He later became the first Pope and was one of the founders of the Catholic Church. In addition, he was an Apostle and spent his life teaching others about Jesus. When he died, he requested to be crucified upside down because he did not think he was valuable enough to be crucified the same way Jesus was. The actions taken by Peter led him to a very interesting journey of life.

• Based on what you learned, what are the characteristics of people who follow Jesus?

Most followers of Jesus share similar characteristics that allow them to be dedicated to their faith. First of all, the followers of Jesus are willing to sacrifice themselves or the things they

love for their own beliefs. Some even going to the extreme length of dying in the name of Jesus

Christ. In addition, followers of Jesus are dedicated to spreading their beliefs about Jesus

and their faith to others. This is their way of doing good for the community and standing up for

what they believe in. Jesus' followers are willing to do anything in order to enforce their beliefs

about Jesus.

• Do you feel that you display any of these characteristics? Why or why not?

The characteristics of Jesus' followers are very applicable in my own life. First of all, I hold strong beliefs on how to live in order to make yourself and others happy. I am very dedicated to ensuring people know that what they do affects the way other people live. I do this by telling others right from wrong when it is needed. This is similar to the Apostles teaching others about Jesus. In addition, followers of Jesus are willing to put Jesus before themselves. Likewise, I am willing to sacrifice my own well being for the people in my life who mean a lot to me. The followers of Jesus are able to display characteristics that would be beneficial to the daily lives of many people.

Multimedia Source:

This image is of the 12 Disciples who spent their lives dedicated to their faith.

Image Citation:

Heinspiredme, et al. “The Disciples Series: 12 Men That Followed Jesus.”Heinspiredme.com, 25 Jan. 2016, heinspiredme.com/the-disciples-series-12-men-that-followed-jesus/.

Blogpost #6: The Beatitudes

1. Prior to this unit, I had never heard of The Beatitudes before. They teach to go through life being selfless, rather than caught up in one's own life. In addition, they show that the good people in the world will gain blessings. Through being their for others and conquering life's low points, people will be rewarded. The Beatitudes present eight different categories of people that will be rewarded for their work in the world. Each beatitude is a teaching of Jesus. Through reading The Beatitudes, one can gain the knowledge on how to be the best person possible.

2. The Beatitude that resonates with me the most is, "Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted." In my opinion, every person goes through hard times within their life. When going through these hard times, it may seem their is never an end in sight. Through the teaching of the Beatitudes, everyone can realize (myself included), that their is an end to hard times. Those who suffer the pain can and will be comforted. I have reached times within my life where I was so down due to an event, that I did not know if happiness would ever reach my again. I eventually reached a point of happiness again. The Beatitudes show that one should not live a life of fear in these times because comfort will reach them.

3. The "speed dating" activity in class showed me how much each Beatitude relates to daily life. Through the different questions, I was able to evaluate the teachings within my one life. I realized that through different experiences, I have put each of the teachings from The Beatitudes to use, without even knowing what they were. In addition, I was able to see how many people have gone through similar experiences that use qualities from The Beatitudes. The Beatitudes do not specify the steps needed to achieve greatness in life, they teach the qualities of a person who achieves greatness for others within their life. This activity truly allowed me to evaluate the teachings of the Church within my own life.

4. The Beatitudes have strong morals that I need to apply to my life more often. The way I intend to apply The Beatitudes to my daily life is by using each as a guideline in different situations. For example, the one about mourning, for times I am sad. The Beatitude about the people "Pure in Heart" for the times I need to ensure myself I am doing the right thing. I want to apply The Beatitude about being meek in times that I may seem boastful about myself to others. The Beatitude about peace makers can be applied to my life when I fight with my siblings and need to apologize. Overall, through following these guidelines I can became a more self-less person.

I chose this picture because I feel it sums up The Beatitudes really well. The image shows that all who have done good/suffered through harsh times will receive happiness. I feel that is the main message within The Beatitudes.

Admin. Cliparts, www.okclipart.com/Beatitudes-Clip-Art30cqllvwxk/.