"Memory Work is spoken to the teacher and due each week on Wednesday and Friday.  It is graded with a +, /, or - depending on how fluently and accurately it is said.  Most of the time Memory Work comes from Luther's Small Catechism.  Once a month the children learn a stanza or two of the Hymn of the Month.  Other times the children recite Scripture.

Memory Work is very important.  It's important primarily because it "hides God's Word in our hearts".  It's also great training for learning good study skills. Also I give very little homework in second grade so my expectation is that it be done well and on time.

(During these weeks of home instruction I'll give the children one Memory Work assignment per week.  You may have them say the Memory Work to you when they know it well but I'd love to have your child call me and say it to me over the phone whenever it's convenient.  I'll usually be at school Monday-Friday from 9:00 to 12:00.  This gives me a chance to visit with them briefly as well.  219-765-5525)

MEMORY WORK FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 18th:

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.  John 3:16

FAITH CLASS FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 18th:

Monday:  Peter Denies Jesus

Read the story on page 7.  Talk about the words "betrayal" or "denial" to make sure children know the meaning.  Even though Jesus has been beaten  and suffered, when he looks at Peter, what do we know that Jesus is still concerned about?

There is a sticker activity, "Confessions", to do on page 8 of the book.  Reproducible 60 is also a good, thoughtful activity.

Tuesday:  Jesus on the Cross

Read about the crucifixion on page 9 of the book.  Golgatha has other names:  Calvary or Place of the Skull.  "Serve the King" is a sticker activity to do on page 10 of the book.  Reproducible 61, "What Did the Lamb of God Do for You?" takes a little time but is well worth the message for children.

Wednesday:  Cross and Candle

The Apostles' Creed, Second Article (2)  This devotion is found on "A Devotion for Families" on this website.

Thursday:  Jesus Dies and is Buried

Read the narrative on page 11.  Ask, "Who do you think tore the temple curtain?" (Answer:  God Himself)  "Reflecting Jesus' Love" is a word search on page 12.  The letters that are not circled in the word search will fill in the blanks at the bottom of the page.  Reproducible 62, "Surprise!" is a fun folding and cutting activity that I like to do with the children.  I think it's a great activity to close out the year.

It's a shame, though, to finish with Jesus' death and not read about the Resurrection.  I encourage you to do the next narrative, "Jesus Rises from the Dead" on Friday or at some point just to get that very important ending to the Passion story in the hearts of the children.

The Lord be with you always!