Unit 2: We Listen

Time - 20 Hours

 

Unit Description

Students first explore the historical development of Judaism using the sacred writings, Torah, Tanak, and Talmud, as a framework. This cluster is named for a translation of the Sh’ma: “Hear, O Israel…”. For Students compile a timeline of events for each lesson. The first lesson covers the Torah: students explore the Covenants between God and Noah, Abraham, Moses and David. The second lesson covers the Tanak: students examine the role of the prophets and their influence on the development of Judaism. The third lesson concludes the cluster with an exploration of the development of Talmud and the period of the Diaspora. Students then explore contemporary Judaism as it is celebrated in religious observances such as festivals and dietary laws. After this, the history of Jewish-Christian relations is explored in the context of the events of the past thousand years, the Holocaust and recent Christian-Jewish interfaith dialogue. In the final cluster of activities, “In your hearing …” students look at the theme of revelation as understood in the early Church. Students trace the growth of Christianity from its Jewish roots. The unit concludes with students preparing a brochure. Throughout the unit, students compile materials in their individual and class portfolios for the world religion symposium to be held near the end of the course.

 

Unit Overview

 

 

Activity Title

Time in min.

Learning Expectations

Assessment

Tasks

1

Hear, O Israel: Torah

 

150

CGE 1f

 

SCV.01; SCV.02; CMV.07; RBV.01; RBV.03.

 

SC1.01; SC2.04; PF2.02; CM1.06; RB1.01

Knowledge/ Understanding; Thinking/Inquiry;

Application/Making Connections.

 

True/False Quiz; Scripture Search & Timeline; Group Dramatic Presentation of Covenants; Journaling.

 

2

 

Hear, O Israel: Tanak

75

CGE 7e

 

SCV.01; PFV.05; PFV.06; RBV.01; HEV.03.

 

PF1.03; PF3.01; PF3.05; CM1.01; CM1.08; CM2.01; CM3.01; CM3.07; RB1.03; RB2.02; HE3.01; HE3.02.

Knowledge/ Understanding; Thinking/Inquiry; Communication; Application/Making Connections.

Scripture Search; Jigsaw Group Research on a Prophet; Journaling.

 

 

3

 

Hear, O Israel: Talmud

75

CGE1c

 

RBV.03; SSV.01

 

RB1.02; RB1.05

Knowledge/ Understanding; Thinking/Inquiry; Communication.

Teacher Demonstration; Timeline; Quiz

4

 

Judaism Today:  Jewish Symbols, Rituals and Festivals

150

CGE 7g

 

CMV.08; RBV.04

 

CM2.05; RB2.10; RB3.02; RB3.03

Knowledge/

Understanding; Communication.

Chart Compilation; Student Presentation; Teacher Presentation on Symbols; Video Activity; Discussion Paper.

5

 

 

 

 

 

Judaism Today: Kashrut

75

CGE 7f

 

CMV.08; RBV.04.

 

CM2.05; RB 3.01; SS1.05.

Knowledge/ Understanding.

Teacher-led Exploration of Kosher Laws; Students Create a Menu.

6

 

Jewish-Christian Relations: The Roots of Anti-Semitism

75

CGE 7g

 

RBV.01, SSV.01, HEV.02.

 

RB1.02, HE2.02; HE2.03.

Knowledge/ Understanding; Communication;

Application.

Students Trace the Causes of Anti-Semitism through Readings and a Mapping Activity.

7

Jewish-Christian Relations: The Holocaust & Its Lessons

150

CGE 1e

 

RBV.01; SSV.01; HEV.02

 

PF2.05; RB1.02; HE2.02; HE2.03

Knowledge; Communication; Application.

Teacher Presentation; Schindler’s List; Lessons of the Holocaust Activity; Journaling.

8

Jewish-Christian Relations:  A Holocaust Education Class Experience

75

CGE 1j

 

HEV.02

 

PF2.05; HE2.02; HE2.03

Application.

Simulation Activity; Journaling

9

Jewish-Christian Relations:  Jews and Christians Since the Holocaust

75

CGE 1e

 

PFV.05, RBV.01

 

PF2.05, RB1.03, HE2.01, HE3.01, HE3.02.

Knowledge/ Understanding; Communication; Application.

Teacher Presentation; Group Activity; Journaling.

10

“In Your Hearing...”:  Revelation and the Church

(30 CE - 500 CE)

 

 

75

CGE1c

 

SCV.02, RBV.01, HEV.03.

 

SCV1.04, SC3.03, RB1.03, RB2.07, HE2.01,

Thinking/Inquiry.

Think-Pair-Share Group Activity, Socratic Lesson, Journaling.

11

“In Your Hearing...”: Revelation and the Church

(30 CE - 500 CE) - The Jewish Roots of Christianity

 

75

CGE1c

 

SCV.01, CMV.08, RBV.02, RBV.03

 

SC1.03, SC2.01, CM2.05, RB2.08, RB2.10

Thinking/Inquiry; Application.

Socratic Lesson; Reflection.

12

“In your Hearing...” Revelation and the Church (30 CE - 500 CE) - The Witness of the Early Church

75

CGE5a

 

SCV.01, RBV.03, HEV.03

 

SC2.02, HE3.02, IS1.06

Knowledge/ Understanding; Communication.

Group Research into Martyrs; Personal and Class Martyrology; Journaling.

13

“In your Hearing...”: Revelation and the Church (30 CE - 500 CE) - The Church of the Councils

75

CGE1a

 

SCV.02, PFV.04, RBV.03

 

SC2.04, PF1.05, RB2.09.

Knowledge/ Understanding.

Media Presentation; Socratic Lesson;

Pamphlet.

 

Note: Expectations originating from the Institute for Catholic Education are italicized.  Normal font is used for the Ministry of Education’s expectations.

 

Activity 1: Hear O Israel: Torah

Time: 150 Minutes

 

Description

General perceptions about Judaism and the Jewish people are explored. The demography and distribution of Jewish people are discussed. The Sh’ma is introduced as the central prayer of Judaism. A timeline of Israelite history is started using a Scripture search. Students explore the Covenants found in the Torah as well as the Davidic Covenant. These insights lead students to further their understandings of the sacred as well as to explore responses to ultimate questions.  This activity asks students to attempt to integrate their beliefs with an understanding of the concepts of Covenant and the sacred.

 

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic Graduate Expectation: CGE1f-The graduate is expected to be a discerning believer formed in the Catholic faith community who seeks intimacy with God and celebrates communion with God, others and creation through prayer and worship;

Strands: Religious Beliefs; Religion and Human Experience; Scripture; Profession of Faith; Christian Moral Life

Overall Expectations:

SCV.01 demonstrate knowledge of the key narratives and events in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures and identify their importance for the life decisions of Jewish and Christian people;

SCV.02 demonstrate an understanding of divine revelation and its connection with the sacred writings of Judaism and Christianity;

CMV.07 demonstrate an understanding of the role of Covenant and commandment in the religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam;

RBV.01 summarize the major historical influences on and events in the development of various religions;

RBV.03 analyse and describe the connection between the human experience and sacred writings and oral teachings.

Specific Expectations:

SC1.01 demonstrate an understanding of the importance of Covenants (originating with Abraham, Moses, and David) in the self‑understanding of the Jewish people;

SC2.04 respect sacred Scripture as revelation of God's Word;

PF2.02 appreciate the various dimensions of the sacred in the religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam;

CM1.06 understand the importance of Covenant and commandment for moral living in the religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam;

RB1.01 identify the origins of various religious beliefs regarding creation, birth, death, God, destiny, and afterlife;

 

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students should be familiar with the structure of the Bible including its divisions and how to look up scriptural passages.

 

Planning Notes

Prepare a true/false quiz as described in the Teaching/Learning strategies below. Identify and challenge stereotypical images of Jewish people and Judaism during the discussion that follows the true/false quiz. Using a Bible and possibly the textbook, prepare a Scripture search that brings out the most important events in Israelite history. A class set of Bibles should be available. Prepare the group composition of the four dramatic groups. Prepare the note on formation of the Scriptures to explain the nature of the Covenant stories.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

The teacher introduces the unit on Judaism by giving students a true/false quiz on Judaism. This true false quiz contains a number of statements about Judaism that confirm students’ basic understanding of Judaism encountered in previous courses or in the first unit’s overview and also challenge students to take a stand on some issues that will be dealt with in the unit. The statements should involve general perceptions about Judaism and the Jewish people as well as the demography and distribution of Jewish people.

Individually, students engage in a Scripture search that outlines Israelite history from the time of Abraham and Sarah until the time of King Solomon. The Scripture may be supplemented with the textbook (see Resources below). The information is placed on a timeline.

In groups, students read passages on the four Covenants: Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David. Students dramatically recreate these events to explain the unique message that each Covenant teaches the people of Israel. Particular attention should be paid to the Israelites’ growing understanding of the sacred. After presenting these events to the class, students explain the message that was being presented. Each student records the message of the four Covenants.

The teacher in processing these stories explains the process by which many of these events came to be recorded. This can be done through a prepared overhead or board note.

In journals, students reflect on the understandings of God found in the Covenant stories and describe what a Covenant with God means to them in their life.

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Students are quizzed on the material associated with the Knowledge/Understanding focused expectations SCV.01, SCV.02, CMV.07, SC1.01, CM1.06, RBV.01, RBV.03, and RB1.01 at the end on Activity 3. The completed timeline is assessed using a rubric that focuses on Thinking/Inquiry and Communication that addresses expectations SCV.01 and RB1.03.   The journal activity is assessed using the ongoing checklist for the Application/Making Connections expectations SC2.02 and PF2.02.

 

Accommodations

Students requiring accommodation in the Scripture search may use the Good News version of the Bible. They may also be paired with students who can tutor them in necessary skills or vocabulary. For enrichment, students may research the historical context of Covenant treaties and supplement the role-plays with this information.

 

Resources

For Scripture see:  New Revised Standard Version Bible Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1991 (ISBN 0195283805);  The Good News Bible Toronto: Canadian Bible Society.

For student texts see: Trafford, Larry. World Religions: People and Faith Toronto: Maxwell Macmillan Canada, 1994, 44-47; and Brodd, Jeffrey. World Religions: A Voyage of Discovery Winona, MN: Saint Mary’s Press, 1998. 191-193, 198.

For Internet resources see: The Patriarchs and the Origins of Judaism at www.jewfaq.org/origins.htm (part of the Judaism 101 site); Timeline for the History of Judaism at www.usisrael.org/jsource/History/timeline.html#context;

 

Activity 2: Hear O Israel: Tanak

Time: 75 Minutes

 

Description

The history of Judaism from the time of Solomon to the time of the destruction of the Second Temple (70 CE) is traced. This is the time of the completion of the Tanak.  Students continue the timeline started in the previous activity using Scripture and textbook as resources. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of the prophets and their influence on the development of Judaism.

 

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic Graduate Expectation: CGE7e - The graduate is expected to be a responsible citizen who witnesses Catholic social teaching by promoting equality, democracy, and solidarity for a just, peaceful and compassionate society;

Strands: Scripture, Profession of Faith, Christian Moral Life, Religious Beliefs, Religion and Human Experience

Overall Expectations:

SCV.01 demonstrate knowledge of the key narratives and events in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures and identify their importance for the life decisions of Jewish and Christian people;

PFV.05 identify traditional and contemporary examples of people of faith and integrity;

PFV.06 examine the human search for meaning in the context of Christian, Judaic and Islamic traditions

RBV.01 summarize the major historical influences on and events in the development of various religions;

HEV.03 analyse the significance of religion or other belief systems in the lives of various historical figures;      

Specific Expectations:

PF1.03 demonstrate an understanding of the human search for meaning and purpose as found in the belief systems of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam;

PF3.01 articulate ways in which people search for the sacred in life;

PF3.05 name traditional and contemporary examples of people of faith and integrity;

CM1.01 demonstrate an understanding of the role morality plays in the human search for meaning and purpose;

CM1.08 identify traditional and contemporary examples of moral living as found in the various world religions;

CM2.01 recognize the importance of moral living in the human search for meaning and purpose;

CM3.01 explain the importance of moral living in the human search for meaning and purpose;

CM3.07 suggest both traditional and contemporary examples of moral living as found in the various religions of the world;

RB1.03 identify influential personalities (e.g., Abraham, Baha’ullah, Christ, Confucius, Dalai Lama, Guru Nanak, Moses, Muhammad, Siddhartha Gautama, Zoroaster) and summarize their contributions to the development of selected religions;

RB2.02 specify the responses of some religions to questions associated with the search for spiritual meaning common problems and questions;

HE3.01 identify significant figures from a range of belief systems;

HE3.02 describe how significant individuals have been motivated by the belief systems studied to influence events, create movements, and challenge the status quo of their day.  

 

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students should be familiar with the structure of the Bible including its divisions and how to look up scriptural passages.

 

Planning Notes

Gather materials for the Scripture search/timeline exercise. Gather materials for the jigsaw group activity.  Consider using these prophets:  Jeremiah, Ezekiel, First Isaiah, Second Isaiah, Hosea, Amos, Micah and Jonah. Use the introductory paragraphs of the prophetic books of the Bible you are using as a resource.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

The students continue to search Scripture and text material to construct their timelines.

In jigsaw groups, students research a prophet.  In home groups, they determine which prophet they will investigate. In the specialist groups, they gather to ask these questions of their particular prophet: How did the prophet affect Judaism? What were the circumstances of the prophet’s search for meaning? What were the values of the prophet? How were morality and the search for meaning connected for the prophet? What modern day figure most closely resembles this prophet?  Back in the home group, students assemble the responses to these questions in chart form. Each student makes a copy of the chart.

In journals, students describe the characteristics of a prophet. They then reflect on the Christian baptismal call to be a prophet and how they could respond to such a call.  

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Students are quizzed on the material associated with the Knowledge/Understanding focused expectations SCV.01, PFV.05, RBV.01, PF3.05, CM1.08, CM3.07, RB1.03, HE3.01, HE3.02 at the end of Activity 3. The completed timeline is assessed using a rubric that focuses on Thinking/Inquiry and Communication that addresses expectations SCV.01 and RB1.03.   The jigsaw activity is assessed using a rubric that focuses on Understanding, Making Connections and Communication (Expectations HEV.03, PF1.03, PF3.01, RB2.02.) The journal activity is assessed using the ongoing checklist for the Application/Making Connections expectations CM1.01, CM2.01 and CM3.01.

 

Accommodations

Students requiring modification may be paired from their home group with a person who can act as a co-worker throughout all of the steps in the jigsaw process. Alternatively, the student may be given a simplified assignment, working independently. For enrichment, students may research Wisdom literature to explore the concepts of Hokmah, Shekinah and Sophia. These findings can be the resource for the journal entry.

 

Resources

For student texts see: Trafford, Larry. World Religions: People and Faith Toronto: Maxwell Macmillan Canada, 1994, pp. 47-50; Brodd, Jeffrey. World Religions: A Voyage of Discovery Winona, MN: Saint Mary’s Press, 1998, pp.193-195, 198.

 

Activity 3: Hear O Israel: Talmud

Time: 75 Minutes

 

Description

The historical development of Judaism is traced from the Destruction of the Second Temple until the time of Maimonides. Using information gathered from various sources, students write a description of the Talmud and diagram its evolution. The Diaspora is also diagramed on a map. The lesson concludes with a quiz on the events of Jewish history explored over the first three activities. Emphasis is placed on how social structures have shaped Judaism.

 

Strand(s) & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic Graduate Expectation: CGE1c - The graduate is expected to be a discerning believer formed in the Catholic faith community who actively reflects on God's Word as communicated through the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures;

Strands: Religious Beliefs, Social Structures

Overall Expectations:

RBV.03 analyse and describe the connection between the human experience and sacred writings and oral teachings;   

SSV.01 summarize the ways in which religions and the development of civilizations are interconnected; 

Specific Expectations:

RB1.02 identify the major influences in the development of various religions (e.g., social unrest, advances in technology, changing mores);

RB1.05 demonstrate an understanding of the development of the institutions that govern and promote the religious life of a religion’s adherents (e.g., Sanhedrin, Universal House of Justice, Papacy, Qadis).

 

Prior Knowledge & Skills

This activity is the culmination of a process continued from Activities 1 and 2.

 

Planning Notes

Gather diagrams and charts and get them ready for overhead projectors, opaque projectors or LCD projectors.  Prepare copies of a map of the world.  Prepare the quiz for the first three.  It is advisable to swap time from the end of this activity with time at the beginning of the next to permit the quiz to be held on the next class.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

Using a map, the teacher demonstrates the events of the Diaspora and then uses diagrams to illustrate the development of the Talmud. Through teacher-led questions and discussions, students see how social structures, religious institutions and the shape of the Talmud were interrelated.

Students record this information in their notes.

Students continue to construct their timeline based on information gleaned from the texts listed below. The completed timeline is placed in the portfolio to be used in the kiosk at the end of the course.

Students complete a quiz based on the designated materials presented in Activities 1, 2 & 3 of this unit.

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Students are quizzed on the material associated with the Knowledge/Understanding focused expectations RBV.03, SSV.01, RB1.02, RB1.05 at the end of this Activity. The completed timeline is assessed using a rubric that focuses on Thinking/Inquiry and Communication that addresses expectations SCV.01 and RB1.03.  

 

Accommodations

Students requiring accommodations for the quiz may be given extra time, alternate seating or an alternate mode for communicating answers. Students requiring enrichment may explore A Page of Talmud website listed below.

 

Resources

For student texts see: Trafford, Larry. World Religions: People and Faith Toronto: Maxwell Macmillan Canada, 1994, pp. 50-52; Brodd, Jeffrey. World Religions: A Voyage of Discovery Winona, MN: Saint Mary’s Press, 1998, pp. 195-199.

For Internet resources see: A Page of Talmud: www.ucalgary.ca/~elsegal/TalmudPage.html. This site explains how the Talmud operates using a “clickable” diagram. Also see Talmud: www.jewfaq.org/torah.htm#Talmud (part of the Judaism 101 site).

 

Activity 4: Judaism Today: Jewish Symbols, Rituals and Festivals 

Time: 150 Minutes

 

Description

Through group work or Socratic lesson, students learn about the rituals and festivals of the Jewish faith tradition. Through a teacher presentation, students identify the religious symbols of the Jewish faith tradition. Using a video students develop an appreciation for the importance of prayer in the daily life of Jewish families. In a discussion paper, students compare the symbol of meal for both Jews and Catholics.

 

Strands and Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations: CGE7g - The graduate is expected to be a responsible citizen who respects and understands the history, cultural heritage and pluralism of today’s contemporary society;

Strands: Christian Moral Development; Religious Beliefs

Overall Expectations: 

CMV.08 recognize the role of Sacred Scriptures in the development of moral codes for the religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam;

RBV.04 demonstrate how practice, ritual, and symbolism are external representations of the beliefs and principles of religion.

Specific Expectations:

CM2.05 respect the moral teachings of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as guidelines for daily living

RB3.02 identify the origin and significance of various practices, rituals, symbols, and festivals;

RB3.03 demonstrate an understanding of the role of sign and symbol in various religions.

 

Prior Knowledge and Skills

None required.

 

Planning Notes

Prepare a student handout for each of the feasts/celebrations or arrange for resources that contain the necessary information. Make copies of the chart in “Jewish Feasts and Celebrations” (Appendix 1) for all students. Not all student texts contain all the information needed for students to complete the festival/celebration chart.  Brodd’s text is the most complete.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

The teacher provides students with a chart to be completed during a teacher presentation on the feasts and celebrations of the Jewish tradition. Alternatively, the teacher may decide to have the material presented by students.  If this option is chosen the teacher divides the students into 13 groups (pairs).  Each group is assigned one feast or celebration to investigate. (Feasts: Sabbath, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkoth, Hanukkah, Purim, Pesach (Passover), Shavuoth; Celebrations: Birth, Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah, Confirmation, Marriage, Death and Burial.) The teacher provides each group with the resources to learn about each of the Feasts/Celebrations.

Students prepare a brief presentation outlining the name (in English), time of life or date in the year when it is celebrated, what it commemorates and a description of the ritual involved. Students present their findings to the class and all students complete the chart in "Jewish Feasts and Celebrations” (Appendix 1). The charts are kept in the student portfolio for use in creating the kiosk for Judaism.

The teacher provides students with an unlabeled handout of symbols and, through a Socratic lesson, helps students to label each symbol with its name and meaning.

Students through the use of a video and associated questions, learn about the importance of Sabbath and family life, the importance of daily prayer including Mitzvah. 

For homework, students write a brief discussion paper comparing the importance of meal as symbol in the Catholic tradition and the Sabbath meal of Jewish tradition.

 

Assessment and Evaluation of Student Achievement

Presentations are marked using peer and teacher evaluation. A rubric, designed by the teacher, is used to evaluate Knowledge/Understanding and Communication. Student charts are evaluated for completion.

 

Accommodations

Students should be grouped in such a way as to ensure that at least one student in each group is comfortable and effective during the presentation. Students requiring enrichment may view Half the Kingdom and report on some women’s perspectives on practicing Judaism.

 

Resources

For student texts see:  Brodd, Jeffrey. World Religions: A Voyage of Discovery Winona, MN: St.Mary’s Press, 1998; Clemmons, Nancy. SNJM. Exploring the Religions of Our World Indiana: Ave Maria Press, 1998 (ISBN 0-87793-674-9); Trafford, Larry. World Religions: People and Faith Don Mills, ON: Maxwell Macmillan Canada Inc., 1994.

For video resources see: Fiddler on the Roof, MGM, 1971; The Chosen –1982, Analysis; Half the Kingdom, National Film Board of Canada, 1989 (www.nfb.ca/FMT/E/MSN/19/19783.html).

 

Appendix

Appendix 1: Jewish Feasts and Celebrations

 

Activity 5: Judaism Today: Kashrut

Time: 75 Minutes

 

Description

Through a Socratic lesson, the teacher presents about the influence of the Torah on the dietary practices of the Jewish people. Students learn that the dietary principles of Kashrut distinguish between foods that are kosher, (ritually clean) and food that cannot be eaten. Rules for preparing kosher food are presented. Students apply this information by creating a kosher menu.

 

Strands and Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations: CGE7f - The graduate is expected to be a responsible citizen who respects and affirms the diversity and interdependence of the world's peoples and cultures.

Strand: Religious Beliefs

Overall Expectations:

CMV.08 recognize the role of Sacred Scriptures in the development of moral codes for the religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam;

RBV.04 demonstrate how practice, ritual, and symbolism are external representations of the beliefs and principles of religion

Specific Expectations:

CM2.05 respect the moral teachings of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as guidelines for daily living

RB3.01 categorize the practices and rituals of various religions (e.g., adhan, almsgiving, asceticism, atonement, anointing, Covenant, sacrifice, holy days, dietary laws, vision quest);

SS1.05  identify ways in which religion is reflected in specific works of art, architecture, music, literature, dance, and in dress and cuisine, and interpret their religious significance.

 

Prior Knowledge and Skills

Students should be aware of the layout of a restaurant menu if they are to complete the optional menu activity. Students should have completed the lessons on branches of Judaism, sacred Jewish texts and moral living before beginning this lesson.

 

Planning Notes

Familiarize yourself with the concept of kosher food and the reference to dietary laws in the Book of Leviticus. If the second optional activity is used, you may want to request assistance from the family studies teacher to assist with the lesson.  Students could also make food at home and bring it in to be eaten. Note:  A kosher butcher might not be available to prepare the meat for the meal. You may wish to exempt students from this criterion.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

The teacher reviews with the students the importance of the law for Jewish people and its source in the Torah. The teacher discusses with students the dietary laws of Judaism as defined in the Book of Leviticus in the Torah. Refer to “Keeping Kashrut” (Appendix 2). In a board note, the teacher provides information about Jewish dietary laws. According to the Book of Leviticus in the Torah, all meals must follow Jewish dietary laws.  Only kosher food is to be eaten.  For a food to be kosher the following practices must be followed.  Meat and dairy food must not be served at the same meal.  A kosher kitchen has a set of dishes and cutlery for dairy food and a different set for meat. Animals with a cloven-foot that chew cud such as cows are considered clean or kosher; however pork (pig) is considered an unclean meat because it does not chew cud and is therefore not kosher. Shellfish is also forbidden. For meat to be considered clean must be slaughtered in a kosher manner.

Students are to imagine that a friend, who is an Orthodox Jew, is coming for supper.  They plan a menu for a four-course meal using only kosher food.

Optional Activity #1: Students to work in pairs to develop a menu for a kosher restaurant. This menu is placed in the student portfolio for use in creating the kiosk for Judaism.

Optional Activity #2: Students prepare and eat a kosher meal.

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Meal menus are assessed for Knowledge/Understanding using a checklist.

 

Accommodations

Notes may be photocopied for students who experience difficulty making comprehensive, legible notes. Gifted students may work in pairs to complete the optional activity.

 

Resources

For Internet resources: An explanation of the reason and practice of Kashrut can be found at the following two sites: http//www.jewish.com/kosher/ and at http//www.jewfaq.org/kashrut.htm.

 

Activity 6: Jewish-Christian Relations: The Roots of Anti-Semitism

Time:  75 Minutes

 

Description

This activity enables students to develop an understanding of the causes of anti-Semitism, as well as the history of anti-Semitic practices by European nations. Students are given various definitions of anti-Semitic actions. They then read “A Partial Chronology of Anti-Semitic Actions” (Appendix 3); develop a map of Europe; and assign a colour to each nation according to the number of incidents of anti-Semitism found in that nation. This activity teaches the students that anti-Semitism has had a long history in Europe. It locates the Holocaust within the context of a long history of anti-Semitism in Europe rather than portraying it as an isolated incident. Students become aware that the Jewish people have suffered much in the two thousand years of Christian history.

 

Strands & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations: CGE7g - The graduate is expected to be a responsible citizen who respects and understands the history, cultural heritage and pluralism of today's contemporary society.

Strands: Religious Beliefs, Social Structures, Religion and Human Experience

Overall Expectations:

RBV.01 summarise the major historical influences on and events in the development of various religions;

SSV.01 summarise the ways in which religions and the development of civilizations are interconnected;

HEV.02 demonstrate an ability to recognize prejudices associated with, and misconceptions about, various religions, beliefs, and traditions;

Specific Expectations:

RB1.02 identify the major influences in the development of various religions (e.g., social unrest, advances in technology, changing mores);

HE2.02 analyse attitudes, biases, and prejudices held by adherents of various religions;

HE2.03analyse how positive and negative attitudes within religious traditions have been used to justify local and global prejudices and biases;

 

Prior Knowledge and Skills

Students must know the basic history of Judaism from 70 CE to 1939 CE. They must know the basic religious beliefs, moral code, and rituals of Jewish life. They must have basic skills in effective group communication. They must be able to work with maps and create a legend.

 

Planning Notes

Prepare handouts on the following topics:

a)      Basic Definitions: anti-Semitism, pogrom, blood libel, expulsion, ghetto, forced conversion, usury, and genocide.

b)      Causes of the Holocaust: prejudice, socio-economic competition, scapegoating, personality types, propaganda, etc.

c)      Roots of European Anti-Semitism: the Diaspora (70 CE) and the subsequent immigration into Europe (where they were outsiders).; the false accusation by Christians that “Jews killed Jesus”; the practice of Usury in Mediaeval Europe.

d)      A summary of Nazi policy regarding Jews and of their treatment of them.

Prepare copies of “A Partial Chronology of Anti-Semitism” by Eileen McNevin (Appendix 3).  Prepare a black-line copy of a labeled map of Europe. (Note: this is available on the Internet at www.eduplace.com/ss/ssmaps/eurpol.html. Ensure that you have four (4) pencil crayons (red, blue, yellow, and green) for each pair of students.

 

Teaching and Learning Strategies

The teacher points out that the Torah and Tanak portions of the history of the Jewish people shows that Jews lived many years with hardship and subjugation. This did not change with the advent and rise of Christianity. The following account may be given to students: After the destruction of the temple in 70 CE, the Jewish people were expelled from Palestine. They followed the routes and roads of the Roman Empire and established themselves throughout Europe. Here, they would have remained separate from the other residents due to their kosher rules, religious practice, appearance and internal communal cohesiveness. In some communities, an irrational fear of the Jewish people arose, particularly in times of stress such as war and plague. Furthermore, as Christianity grew and spread along the same Roman Imperial routes, some Christians misinterpreted Christian teaching in such a way as to place the blame for the crucifixion exclusively on the Jewish people, including the people living among them in Europe. In the Middle Ages, Church prohibitions against Christians participating in usury, coupled with prohibitions against Jewish people doing engaging in certain jobs, gave rise to the practice of money lending by many Jews in Europe. These circumstances along with pre-existing anti-Semitism, gave rise to negative stereotypes of Jewish people. This Xenophobia led from prejudice to persecution. As the industrial revolution brought a shift in economics, the scapegoating of the Jewish people worsened.  Over the years, Jewish people experienced many hardships at the hands of Christian citizens. These circumstances, along with pre-existing anti-Semitism, led from early prejudice to outright persecution of the Jews.

The teacher distributes the handouts (Definitions, Causes of the Holocaust) and goes over them with students. The teacher reviews the essential vocabulary for a study of anti-Semitism. The teacher may point out the following causes of the Holocaust: a) Pre-Existing Prejudice - anti-Semitism; b) Economic Competition - the industrial Revolution, social Darwinism, etc. (e.g. majority groups are often threatened when a minority begins to succeed.); c) Scapegoating - blaming a group for the economic hardships of a nation. (e.g. WWI) ; d) Propaganda: when these get combined with active propaganda, an event like the Holocaust can happen.

The teacher then distributes “A Partial Chronology of Anti-Semitism” by Eileen McNevin (Appendix 3), the black-line copy of a labeled map of Europe (see resources below) and pencil crayons (red, blue, yellow, and green).

The teacher introduces the map assignment being careful to point out that the activity is not about blaming certain countries or people, nor is it about letting some countries “off the hook” if they had fewer incidents than others did.  It is neither a contest nor a judgment - even one incident of anti-Semitism is too many. Rather it is an exercise in gathering information in which the students can come to understand that there is a long history of Jewish oppression in Europe before the Holocaust.

In pairs, students create a “Tally Sheet” on which they record the names of the various European nations labeled in the Map. As they read A Partial Chronology of Anti-Semitism, they add up the number of incidents for each country from the 3rd to the 20th century. When they have completed the tally, they then colour the countries according to the following:

a)      Red = 14 incidents or more              c) Blue = 8-13 incidents

b)      Green = 4-7 incidents                       d) Yellow = 1-3 incidents.

Each pair of students submits one map for evaluation.

(Note: The students will be concerned with accuracy. This is not the main intention of the exercise. Be sure to point this out when the map is done. One incident is one too many. The intent of the exercise is to help the students appreciate the long history of Jewish oppression in Europe prior to the Holocaust. These maps can be later used in the discussion of the location of concentration camps, and the killing of Jewish citizens during World War II.)

Individually students are asked to record their response/reaction to the exercise in their journals.

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

The teacher checks the Anti-Semitism Chronology Map & Journal Entry.  Students are assessed in the areas of Knowledge, Application, and Communication.

 

Accommodations

Students with limited cognitive ability may be paired with stronger students who will assist them. They are encouraged to do the colouring on the maps. If possible, these students may be invited to share their perspective on oppression in the school.

 

Resources 

For student texts see: Trafford, Larry, World Religions: People and Faith Toronto: Maxwell Macmillan Canada, 1994, pp.53-58; Religions on File, Facts on File, New York, NY: 1990, pp. 5.16-5.21, 5:37 (ISBN 0-8160-224-0)

For Internet resources see: Maps of Europe at www.eduplace.com/ss/ssmaps/eurpol.html; 2000 Year History of Jewish Persecution at www.religioustolerance.org/jud_pers.htm.

 

Appendix

Appendix 3: A Partial Chronology of Anti-Semitism by Eileen McNevin.

 

Activity 7: Jewish-Christian Relations – The Holocaust & Its Lessons

Time:  150 Minutes

 

Description

This activity enables the student to come to an understanding of the atrocities of the Holocaust and the systematic stripping of rights by the Nazi regime. Students analyze the attempts of the Nazis to dehumanize the Jewish people and the resistance of the Jewish people to this dehumanization. (The students are referred to the earlier activity in Unit 1 - “What Does it Mean to be Human?”) From this analysis, students then examine some lessons that can be drawn from the Holocaust and applied to our everyday world or any situation of oppression.

 

Strands & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations: CGE1e - The graduate is expected to be a discerning believer formed in the Catholic faith community who speaks the language of life... "recognizing that life is an unearned gift and that a person entrusted with life does not own it but that one is called to protect and cherish it." (Witnesses to Faith)

Strands: Profession of Faith; Religious Beliefs, Social Structures, Religion and Human Experience

Overall Expectations:

RBV.01 summarise the major historical influences on and events in the development of various religions;

SSV.01 summarise the ways in which religions and the development of civilizations are interconnected;

HEV.02 demonstrate an ability to recognize prejudices associated with, and misconceptions about, various religions, beliefs, and traditions;

Specific Expectations:

PF2.05 recognize the centrality of human dignity and personhood to the world's religious traditions;

RB1.02 identify the major influences in the development of various religions (e.g., social unrest, advances in technology, changing mores);

HE2.02 analyse attitudes, biases, and prejudices held by adherents of various religions;

HE2.03 analyse how positive and negative attitudes within religious traditions have been used to justify local and global prejudices and biases.

 

Prior Knowledge and Skills

Students must know the basic history of Judaism from 70 CE to 1945 CE. They must know the basic religious beliefs, moral code, and rituals of Jewish life. They must have basic skills in effective group communication.

 
Planning Notes

Prepare copies of Laws and Actions Directed Against Jews By Nazis (Part I & II) by Eileen McNevin (Appendix 4). Prepare a note for students about the various roles played by people during the Holocaust (e.g. perpetrators, victims, bystanders, assisters, and resister). Prepare a handout entitled Lessons of the Holocaust (for content see note under Teaching and Learning Strategies).  Prepare a worksheet to accompany the movie Schindler’s List.  It should contain at least the following questions:

a)      What are ten ways the Nazis tried to de-humanize the Jewish people?

b)      What are five ways the Jewish people resisted?

Prepare a chart with the following headings: Perpetrator, Victim, Bystander, Assister, and Resister.

 

Teaching and Learning Strategies

The teacher reviews the roots and history of anti-Semitism and the causes of the Holocaust. The teacher then outlines the Nazi campaign against the Jewish people from 1933-1945 CE. The teacher points out that the history of Judaism studied to date makes it clear that the Nazis used pre-existing prejudice to target the Jewish people. The teacher distributes and reviews the Laws and Actions Directed against Jews by Nazis. The teacher also notes that there are many other examples of genocide and “Holocausts” throughout the world. Next the teacher distributes and reviews the handout Lessons of the Holocaust which outlines the following:

a)      All actions anti-Semitism of oppressions involve the de-humanization of the victim.

b)      In any incident of oppression people fit into the following categories:

Victim – a person or group being oppressed;

Perpetrator – a person or group oppressing;

Assister – a person or group actively assisting the oppressor through words or actions;

Bystander – a person or groups whose silence, or failure to act, allows the perpetrator to continue even though they may not agree with the perpetrator;

Resisters – a person or groups who actively resist the perpetrator in order to assist the victim.

c)      Any act of oppression requires that bystanders and assisters are the majority in order for it to continue.

The teacher then distributes the Lessons of the Holocaust Chart  (Schindler’s List) and plays excerpts from the movie, Schindler's List.  Students individually complete the chart identifying the various strategies for dehumanization used by the Nazi’s, as well as any other incidents of oppression.

Students individually complete a journal entry in which they apply the lessons of the Holocaust to a situation they have witnessed or know of in their own lives (e.g. a fight at school).

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

The teacher checks the Lessons of the Holocaust Chart and Journal entry.  Students are assessed in the areas of Knowledge, Application, and Communication.

 

Accommodations

Students identified with learning needs may be paired with stronger students who will assist them. They are encouraged to do the colouring on the maps. If possible, these students may be invited to share their perspective on oppression in the school.

 

Resources

For student texts see: Trafford, Larry. World Religions: People and Faith Toronto: Maxwell Macmillan Canada, 1994, pp.53-58; and Brodd, Jeffrey. World Religions: A Voyage of Discovery Winona, MN: Saint Mary’s Press, 1998, pp. 202-203, 213; and Religions on File. Facts on File: New York, NY: 1990, pp. 5.16-5.21, 5:37 (ISBN 0-8160-224-0).

For video resources see: Schindler’s List, Universal, 1993.

 

Appendix

Appendix 4: Laws and Actions Directed against Jews by Nazis

 

Activity 8: Jewish-Christian Relations – A Holocaust Education Class Experience

Time: 75 Minutes

 

Description

This classroom experience was inspired by a visit to the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. With the help of material donated by the museum, this presentation is possible.

 

It is meant to help students understand that the laws and historical facts they are currently learning about were about real people, in real situations. Students are assigned an “identity” via an Identification Card. The card profiles actual victims or survivors of the Holocaust.  This experience is intended to help students develop a real connection those who lived through the event.  It is also intended to help them develop an appreciation of the indignity experienced by those forced to wear identification badges and the common experience of people forced to wear them for whatever reason. Students are taught to make connections between the historical event of the Holocaust and their own lives by coming to understand that our schools and communities are injured when we fail to speak out against injustice, prejudice, and oppression.  They are taught that that each person has a responsibility to act and speak out against prejudice, whether it is in the cafeteria at school, in the local community, provincially, nationally, or internationally. Furthermore, students are taught that true justice is not a matter of retribution, but of constantly using our experiences to make the world a better place.

 

An alternative to this experience is the expansion of Activity 2 to include a more in-depth analysis of the movie Schindler’s List.

 

Strands & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:  CGE1j - The graduate is expected to be a discerning believer formed in the Catholic faith community who recognizes that "sin, human weakness, conflict and forgiveness are part of the human journey" and that the cross, the ultimate sign of forgiveness is at the heart of redemption (Witnesses to Faith).

Strands: Profession of Faith, Religion and Human Experience.

Overall Expectations:

HEV.02 demonstrate an ability to recognize prejudices associated with, and misconceptions about, various religions, beliefs, and traditions.

Specific Expectations:

PF2.05 recognize the centrality of human dignity and personhood to the world's religious traditions;

HE2.02 analyse attitudes, biases, and prejudices held by adherents of various religions;

HE2.03 analyse how positive and negative attitudes within religious traditions have been used to justify local and global prejudices and biases.

 

Prior Knowledge and Skills

Students must know the basic history of the Nazi campaign against the Jewish people, the underlying causes of, and lessons of, the Holocaust.

 

Planning Notes

Gather together the following items: a number of items beforehand:

a)      votive candles in glass candle holders (lighting for the room),

b)      Menorah & candles,

c)      garbage bags to cover windows,

d)      ink stamps pad and stamp,

e)      Nazi/Military Uniforms (for teachers),

f)       safety pins for pinning on identification badges,

g)      CD or cassette tape of sombre music such as Gustav Mahler’s Funeral March, Tomaso Albinoni’s Adagio for Strings in G Minor or Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings,

h)      the film Schindler’s List and/or Playing for Time,

i)        CD or cassette tape of song and lyrics for Mark Wills’ Don’t Laugh At Me. (Lyrics are available at www.disabilitynetwork.com/life.html.)

Prepare the Identification Card (1 card for each student) of actual victims from the period. (Appendix 5). The cover template (Appendix 5) can be copied onto card stock and cut in half, then folded to make a small booklet cover. The content of the booklet (Victim/Survivor Profiles) can be attained through the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum as listed in Resources below.

Prepare Identification Badges: pink triangles for gay men, black triangle for lesbians, red triangles for resistance fighters and Star of David for Jews. Prepare the handout “Laws and Actions Directed against Jews by Nazis” (Appendix 4) Prepare copies of the prayer service – “In Our Place & Time” (Appendix 6). Prepare the handout – “Words Written in a Concentration Camp” (Appendix 7).

 

Set up the room prior to the presentation. Using desks, partition a small section of the room into a long rectangle, large enough to fit the students so they are very close to each other, but not overly uncomfortable.  Position the VCR/TV so that it is at one end of the rectangle.  Cue the tape to a boxcar scene from one of the movies.  Light votive candles on the desks to provide subtle lighting.  Play sombre music as students enter the room.  Set up three stations in the room: one represents the years 1933-1939 CE, one represents the years 1940-44 CE, and one represents liberation.  Place the copies (1 per student) of the list of “Laws and Actions Directed against Jews by Nazis (Appendix 4) at each station.

 

Set up a desk outside the classroom with the passports/identification cards, stamp and pad, badges and safety pins.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

As the students arrive, a teacher stops them at the desk outside the classroom, gives them an Identification Card roughly stamps it and randomly assigns an Identification Badge to each student.

1.   Pink Triangle - Gay Male     2.  Black Triangle - Lesbian       3.  Star of David – Jewish         

Note: Other Badges can be used to represent victims as per the teacher’s preference. For example, Red Triangles represent Resistance Fighters. As students are given their Identification Cards, the teacher instructs the them to read only the first page of where they will learn their identity (name, age, situation) for the presentation.   Students should asked not to read ahead in their books.  They are to read the subsequent pages only when they are instructed to do so.

 

The teacher lines the students up in single file, and then lead them into the dimly lit classroom with the sombre music playing.  They are then lead into the partitioned area and “squeezing” as necessary into the narrow space.  The teacher explains how Jewish people were transported to the concentration camps in small train boxcars, on journeys that lasted days in heat or bitter cold with no food or water.  While students remain compressed together, the teacher plays the train scene from the movie selected.

 

At the end of the movie clip, the teacher moves the students to Station #1 (1933-39 CE) where they will find a copy of a chronology of anti-Semitic laws and actions.  After reciting the chronology, students are asked to turn to the page in their Identification Card that describes what happened to their person during that time.  Students write a brief note to the person in the Identification Card.

 

Students move on to Station #2 and repeat the process for the years 1940-44 CE.

 

The students continue on to Station #3 (Liberation).  The teacher shows a clip from a documentary or movie showing footage of liberation for concentration camp detainees. (See Internet resources below.) Students are asked to turn to the page in their Identification Card describing what happened to their person during the time of liberation and again write a brief note to the person in the Identification Card.

 

By now some students will have already discovered that their person was killed in the second station, some in the third, and some died during or immediately following liberation.  The teacher asks those who have survived to go to another corner of the room.  The teacher points out the ratio of survivors to victims.

 

The teacher now brings forward a memorial Menorah and begins the prayer service – “In Our Time and Place” (Appendix 6).  During the Menorah ceremony of the service, the teacher lights a candle for each reflection. These reflections are intended to help students understand that we are called to not cooperate with prejudice and exclusion in our own school and community.  The prayer service ends with the reading “Words Written in a Concentration Camp.”

 

At the end of the class, the teacher instructs students to wear their badges until they return to class the following day. (If students wish to remove the badges, they may do so at any time during the day. This will facilitate discussion about what it meant to be unable to remove badges in Nazi Germany.)

 

The next class involves a follow-up & evaluation of the previous class experience.  This begins with the students writing a reflection in their journals addressing the following:

a)      What did the experience teach you?  What didn’t work?

b)      How did you feel about the person whose ID Card you were assigned?

c)      How did you feel about the badge?  Did you wear it all the time?  Why or why not?

The teacher then discusses the experience with the students.  The teacher invites them to consider the stigma that was attached to wearing the badges.  Jewish people, homosexuals, communists and socialists, political opponents, gypsies, among others, did not have the option of removing their badges.

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

The journal entry will be assessed for Application.

 

Accommodations

Prior to the experience, students should be instructed that the process of the dramatization may be emotionally intense.  They should be told that they are welcome to drop out of the process of the dramatization if they feel too uncomfortable.

 

Resources

For student texts see: Trafford, Larry. World Religions: People and Faith Toronto: Maxwell Macmillan Canada, 1994, pp.53-58; Religions on File Facts on File, New York, NY: 1990, pp. 5.16-5.21, 5:37 (ISBN 0-8160-224-0).

For Internet resources see: Shoah Foundation at www.vhf.org; United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Washington DC at www.ushmm.org/; Films on the Holocaust at motlc.wiesenthal.com/text/x01/xm0113.html; World Prayers Archive at www.worldprayers.org/. Learning Guide to Schindler’s List at  http://www.teachwithmovies.org/guides/schindlers-list.html

For video resources see: Schindler’s List (Universal, 1993) & Playing for Time(VCL, 1980

For further resources see: Survivors: Testimonies of the Holocaust CD-ROM, (Torrance, CA, Knowledge Adventure)

 

Appendices

Appendix 4: Laws and Actions Directed against Jews by Nazis

Appendix 5: Identification Cards

Appendix 6: Prayer Service: In Our Place & Time by Michael Way Skinner

Appendix 7: Words Written in a Concentration Camp.

 

Activity 9: Jewish-Christian Relations: Jews and Christians since the Holocaust

Time: 75 Minutes

 

Description

This activity encourages the student to examine the positive contribution of the Catholic Church and other Christians to the current relationship between Christians and Jews. Students are made aware of the positive nature of current Jewish-Christian relations by reviewing various writings of survivors and their Christian contemporaries who resisted (Righteous Gentiles), as well as the current actions of the Church and officials of the Church.

 

Strands & Learning Expectations

Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectation: CGE1e - The graduate is expected to be a discerning believer formed in the Catholic faith community who speaks the language of life... "recognizing that life is an unearned gift and that a person entrusted with life does not own it but that one is called to protect and cherish it." (Witnesses to Faith)

Strands: Profession of Faith, Religious Beliefs, Religion and Human Experience.

Overall Expectations:

PFV.05 identify traditional and contemporary examples of people of faith and integrity;

RBV.01 summarise the major historical influences on and events in the development of various religions.

Specific Expectations:

PF2.05 recognize the centrality of human dignity and personhood to the world's religious traditions;

RB1.03 identify influential personalities (e.g., Abraham, Baha’ullah, Christ, Confucius, Dalai Lama, Guru Nanak, Moses, Muhammad, Siddhartha Gautama, Zoroaster) and summarise their contributions to the development of selected religions;

HE2.01 identify religious leaders who used religion to oppose prejudice and discrimination (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr., Mohandas K. Gandhi, Marcus Garvey, Jesus Christ, Guru Nanak, Muhammad), and describe the ways in which they did so;

HE3.01 identify significant figures from a range of belief systems;

HE3.02 describe how significant individuals have been motivated by the belief systems studied to influence events, create movements, and challenge the status quo of their day.

 

Prior Knowledge and Skills

Students must have a basic familiarity with the history of Christian/Jewish relations.

 

Planning Notes

Locate a number of articles describing the current status of Jewish-Christian relations since the Holocaust. You may want to look to the writings of the following people: Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Eli Weisel, Pope John Paul II, etc. Prepare response questions for each article.

 

Teaching and Learning Strategies

The teacher points out to the class that there have been many advances made in Jewish-Christian relations over the past few decades. Some include:

a)      Pope John Paul II’s millennial apologies;

b)      Pope John Paul II visiting Yad Vashem (and meeting a concentration camp survivor he carried to safety after the liberation of a camp in 1945 in Poland);

c)      recent statements by Jewish groups regarding the positive impact of current Catholic actions on Jewish-Christian dialogue;

d)      the apology of the French bishops for their complicity in France during World War II.

Then the teacher divides the students into groups of three to five students.

In these groups students complete an article analysis. Each group is given a copy of an article presenting an analysis of modern Jewish-Christian relations. Students read the article and provide a 5-10 point summary of it. Students, in their groups, then present the article they reviewed to the rest of the class. The other students take notes from each other group’s presentation.

Individually, students, complete a journal entry outlining their reaction to what they have learned about the current Jewish-Christian relationship.

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Students are assessed on the article response work & their journal for Knowledge, Communication, and Application.

 

Accommodations

Students requiring accommodation are to be grouped with stronger students who will assist them. Students requiring enrichment can conduct an internet search and review a site that pertains to the lesson’s activities.

 

Resources

For student texts see: Trafford, Larry. World Religions: People and Faith Toronto: Maxwell Macmillan Canada, 1994, pp.58; Brodd, Jeffrey. World Religions: A Voyage of Discovery Winona, MN: Saint Mary’s Press, 1998, pp. 208-209; Peck, Abraham J. (ed.) Jews and Christians After the Holocaust Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1973 (ISBN 0-8006-0678-7) (Note: the foreword by Eli Weisel.)

For Internet resources see: Canadian Jewish Congress Web Page at www.cjc.ca. The liturgy for the Universal Prayer: Confession Of Sins And Asking For Forgiveness is found at http://www.vatican.va/news_services/liturgy/documents/ns_lit_doc_20000312_prayer-day-pardon_en.html

 

Activity 10: “In your hearing...” Revelation and the Church (30 CE - 500 CE): The Message of Jesus Christ

Time: 75 Minutes

 

Description

In this activity, students explore the core elements of Jesus' message in light of the early Church's witness to his messianic identity and message.  Students examine key passages in Scripture identifying Jesus' proclamation of the Basileia or Reign of God in light of Jesus' relationship to the Father and his messianic/eschatological mission.  Students are asked to reflect on the Judaism of Jesus and his fidelity to the Torah.  Students are also asked to reflect on those aspects of Jesus' message that sometimes placed him at odds with the over-legalism of elements of Judaism of the first century CE.

 

Strands(s) & Learning Expectations

Catholic Graduate Expectation: CGE1c - The graduate is expected to be a discerning believer formed in the Catholic faith community who actively reflects on God's Word as communicated through the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.

Strands: Scripture, Religious Beliefs, Religion and the Human Experience         

Overall Expectations:

SCV.02  demonstrate an understanding of divine revelation and its connection with the sacred writings of Judaism and Christianity

RBV.01 summarize the major historical influences on and events in the development of various religions;

HEV.03 analyse the significance of religion or other belief systems in the lives of various historical figures;

Specific Expectations:

SC1.04 evaluate the role of the Christian Scriptures in expressing the importance of the life and teaching of Jesus.

SC3.03 analyze the connection between the life stories of religious founders and sacred writings.

RB1.03 identify influential personalities (e.g., Abraham, Baha’ullah, Christ, Confucius, Dalai Lama, Guru Nanak, Moses, Muhammad, Siddhartha Gautama, Zoroaster) and summarize their contributions to the development of selected religions.

RB2.07 explore the origins and development of sacred writings

HE2.01 identify religious leaders who used religion to oppose prejudice and discrimination (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr., Mohandas K. Gandhi, Marcus Garvey, Jesus Christ, Guru Nanak, Muhammad), and describe the ways in which they did so.

 

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students must be able to locate passages in Scripture.

 

Planning Notes

Refamiliarize yourself with some important passages in the New Testament that reveal Jesus' teaching about God.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

The teacher divides students into groups. Students are given several key New Testament passages (i.e. Mk 1:14-39; Lk 4:16-25; Mt 5:1-20; Mt 6:1-18; Jn 14:1-18; AA 2:14-38, etc.). Using the Think/Pair/Share strategy, student groups explain what these passages teach about what the early Christian community believed about God and about Jesus.

The teacher gathers the input of all groups into a class note that can be shared.  As well, the teacher outlines the key themes of Jesus' message (i.e. Metanoia, Reign of God, the Fatherhood of God, etc.)

Individually, students reflect in their journals on those aspects of Jesus' message that they think would have been found to most compatible with traditional Judaism and those aspects that may have posed a challenge to the traditional Jewish understanding of God.

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

The group activity can be assessed using a peer or self-evaluation checklist.  The journal is assessed according to the rubric developed for the course, but emphasizing Thinking and Inquiry.

 

Accommodations

Students with special needs might do a piece of artwork illustrating an important aspect of Jesus' message.

 

Resources

For Scripture see: New Revised Standard Version Bible Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1991 (ISBN 0195283805)

For commentary on Scriptures see: Brown, Raymond, et. al., The New Jerome Biblical Commentary  Pearson, 1989. (ISBN 0136149340); Meier, John, A Marginal Jew New York: Doubleday, 1991 (ISBN 0385264259).

 

Activity 11: “In your hearing...” Revelation and the Church (30 CE – 500 CE): The Jewish Roots of Christianity

Time: 75 Minutes

 

Description

Students explore the Jewish roots of Christianity. Consideration is given to the cultural diversity of the early church in light of the missions of Paul/Barnabas and the authority of the Twelve (especially Peter and James). Particular focus is given to the controversy at the heart of the Council of Jerusalem in 49 CE.  The tension between the 'Hellenists' and the 'Judaizers' is identified as a core element in the development of the early Church.

 

Strands(s) & Learning Expectations

Catholic Graduate Expectation: CGE1c - The graduate is expected to be a discerning believer formed in the Catholic faith community who actively reflects on God's Word as communicated through the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.

Strands: Scripture, Christian Moral Development, Religious Beliefs

Overall Expectations:

SCV.01 demonstrate knowledge of the key narratives and events in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures and identify their importance for the life decisions of Jewish and Christian people.

CMV.08 recognize the role of Sacred Scriptures in the development of moral codes for the religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

RBV.02 analyse the similarities and differences between the central beliefs of various religions;

RBV.03 analyse and describe the connection between the human experience and sacred writings and oral teachings

Specific Expectations:

SC1.03 assess the relevance of the Hebrew Scriptures in the life decisions of observant Jewish people;

SC2.01 acknowledge the important role of sacred Scriptures and writings in the formation of religious identity.

CM2.05 respect the moral teachings of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as guidelines for daily living.

RB2.08 compare and contrast the roles sacred writings and oral teachings have in various religions.

RB2.10 examine the influence of sacred writings and oral teachings from various religions on life in modern society.

 

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students must be able to locate passages in Scripture.

 

Planning Notes

Refamiliarize yourself with the background of the Council of Jerusalem.  A good biblical commentary is sufficient for this purpose. Ensure you have sufficient Bibles for the class.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

The teacher outlines the background of the Council of Jerusalem and its basic controversy around circumcision and, to a lesser degree, the extent to which baptized Gentiles were to be obligated by the laws of Kashrut. 

Students read the accounts of the Council of Jerusalem in Acts 15 and the story that Paul tells of his conflict with Peter at Antioch in Galatians 1-2.

The teacher identifies some basic groups making representation at the council including:  a) Judaean Christians - including some Pharisees; b) the Jerusalem Church - under the leadership of James; c) Peter - representing the mission of the Twelve; d) 'Hellenists' - Paul, Barnabas, and Titus.

Individually, students are consider the following questions and comment on them in their journals:

a)      What was at stake for Judaism at this council?

b)      What was at stake for Christianity at this council?

Hopefully, students will see the council not only in terms of the achievement of Paul, but in light of the eventual split between the synagogue and the early Church.

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

The journal is assessed according to the rubric developed for the course, emphasizing Thinking/Inquiry and application.

 

Accommodations

Students with special needs might respond to a different question for reflection, i.e. Why would some Jewish Christians want new Christians to be circumcised?

 

Resources

For Scripture and commentary see: New Revised Standard Version Bible Toronto: Oxford University Press, 1991 (ISBN 0195283805).

For commentary on Scripture see: Brown, Raymond, et. al., The New Jerome Biblical Commentary  Pearson, 1989 (ISBN 0136149340).

 

Activity 12: “In your hearing...” Revelation and the Church (30 CE - 500 CE): The Witness of the Early Church

Time: 75 Minutes

 

Description

Students consider the Roman persecution of Christianity in light of the tensions already existing between Judaism and the early Church.  They research some of the Acts of the Martyrs (e.g. Polycarp, Perpetua and Felicity, etc.) and, in groups, prepare an account of the sacrifice of one particular early Christian. These are collected into a class "martyrology".  Students are asked to reflect on the meaning of sacrifice in their own lives.

 

Strands(s) & Learning Expectations

Catholic Graduate Expectation: CGE5a -The graduate is expected to be a collaborative contributor who works effectively as an interdependent team member.

Strand: Scripture, Religion and the Human Experience

Overall Expectations:

SCV.01 demonstrate knowledge of the key narratives and events in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures and identify their importance for the life decisions of Jewish and Christian people.

RBV.03 analyse and describe the connection between the human experience and sacred writings and oral teachings.

HEV.03 analyse the significance of religion or other belief systems in the lives of various historical figures.

Specific Expectations:

SC2.02 appreciate the relevance of sacred writings in the life decisions of adherents.

HE3.02 describe how significant individuals have been motivated by the belief systems studied to influence events, create movements, and challenge the status quo of their day.

IS1.06 use the Internet and other available technologies as tools in researching topics in the study of religion, and in establishing appropriate communication with people of different faiths, as identified by the teacher.

 

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students should be familiar with Church history prior to the events discussed in this activity.

 

Planning Notes

Make various research materials available, including various writings from early Church history and lives of the saints. (Note:  many early Christian writings may be found on the Internet.)

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

In groups of four or five, students research the circumstances around the death of an early Christian martyr based on contemporary accounts and encyclopedia data.  Some may be found on the Internet at www.newadvent.org/fathers where students will also be able to use the old Catholic Encyclopedia.

Individually, students illustrate and write their own account of the life and death of an early Christian martyr.  These are then collected into a class "martyrology".

Students reflect on the question "Is there anything or anyone for whom I would be willing to sacrifice my life?" and write their responses in their journals.

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

The martyrological entry can be assessed using a rubric emphasizing Knowledge and Communication.

 

Accommodations

The activity already contains elements that are suited to a variety of special needs.

 

Resources

For texts see: Catholic University of North America, New Catholic Encyclopedia Palatine, IL: Jack Heraty & Associates. 1989 (ISBN 007010235X). 

For Internet resources see: The Fathers of the Church at www.newadvent.org/fathers; Catholic Encyclopedia at www.newadvent.org/cathen/. And Theology Library – Saints http://www.mcgill.pvt.k12.al.us/jerryd/cm/saints2.htm

 

Activity 13: “In your hearing...” Revelation and the Church (30 CE - 500 CE): The Witness of the Early Church -The Church of the Councils

Time:  75 Minutes

 

Description

Students examine critical events in the development of the Church in the 4th and 5th centuries as it moved from being a persecuted movement within the empire to being a major social force embraced by mainstream Roman society.  Students learn the story of Constantine the Great, the Edict of Milan and the convening of the Councils of Nicaea and Chalcedon. Students design a pamphlet as their culminating activity.

 

Strands(s) & Learning Expectations

Catholic Graduate Expectation: CGE1a - The graduate is expected to be a discerning believer formed in the Catholic faith community who illustrates a basic understanding of the saving story of our Christian faith.

Strand: Profession of Faith, Religious Beliefs

Overall Expectations:

SCV.02 demonstrate an understanding of divine revelation and its connection with the sacred writings of Judaism and Christianity.

PFV.04 explain the importance of historical development of the Church and its contemporary self expression (e.g. Church councils, the divisions within Christendom, ecumenism and interfaith dialogue)

RBV.03 analyse and describe the connection between the human experience and sacred writings and oral teachings.

Specific Expectations:

SC2.04 respect sacred Scripture as revelation of God's word

PF1.05 explain the importance of the historical development of the Catholic Church and its contemporary self understanding (e.g. the Apostolic and Nicene Creed, Church councils, authoritative teachings of the Magisterium, Catholic documents on ecumenical and inter religious dialogue.

RB2.09 identify key principles from relevant passages of sacred writings and oral teachings in various religions

 

Prior Knowledge & Skills

Students should be familiar with Church history prior to the events discussed in this activity. Students should also be familiar with pamphlet construction from Unit 1.

 

Planning Notes

Refamiliarize yourself with the person of Constantine, the Edict of Milan, the heresy of Arianism, and the councils of Nicaea and Chalcedon. If pamphlets are to be done on a computer, arrange computer time for students. Make the class portfolio as well as students’ own portfolios available to students. Provide markers, pencil crayons, and art paper for pamphlets (optional). Prepare a unit test to cover expectations not assessed through the pamphlet.

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

The teacher tells the story of Constantine's vision of the cross with the words in hoc signo vincit  (By this conquer).  On the board, the teacher draws an outline of Constantine's life beginning with the time of his vision, through the proclamation of the Edict of Milan, the Council of Nicaea and ending with his baptism and death.  The teacher introduces the problem of the rapid expansion of the Christian Church and the potential for error in the transmission of the faith e.g. Arianism.  The teacher explains the function of an ecumenical council in the Church's magisterium, using Nicaea and Chalcedon as examples.

Individually, students design the pamphlet that will form the culminating performance task for this unit.

 

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Students may write a short quiz on the material above assessing Knowledge and Understanding.

 

Accommodations

Students with special needs may write a reflection or make an illustration on one of the elements outlined in the lesson, e.g. "My understanding of who Jesus is".

 

Resources

For texts see: Catholic University of North America, New Catholic Encyclopedia Palatine, IL: Jack Heraty & Associates. 1989 (ISBN 007010235X).

For Internet resources see: The Fathers of the Church at www.newadvent.org/fathers (note: scroll down to find links to Church councils); Catholic Encyclopedia at www.newadvent.org/cathen/ (note: entries on the councils and Constantine are here); Resources for Constantine the Great at http://www.shsu.edu/~eng_wpf/con-hist.html


Appendix 1: Jewish Feasts and Celebrations

 

Name of Feast

Name in English

Date or Time of Life Celebrated

What is Commemorated?

Ritual Practices

 

Rosh Hashanah

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yom Kippur

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shabbat

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sukkoth

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hanukkah

 

 

 

 

 

 

Purim

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pesach

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shavuoth

 

 

 

 

 

 

Birth

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bar Mitzvah

Bat Mitzvah

 

 

 

 

 

 

Confirmation

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marriage

 

 

 

 

 

 

Death and Burial

 

 

 

 

 

 


Appendix 2: Keeping Kashrut

 

 "This is the law of the animal, the bird, every living creature that swarms in the water, and for every creature teems on the ground. To distinguish between the impure and the pure, and between the creature that may be eaten and the creature that may not be eaten."

From VaYikra (Leviticus) 11:46-47

 

The word “kosher” means ‘fit’ or ‘proper’. For Jewish people kashrut refers to the practice of eating only kosher food, that is, food that is clean. The laws of kashrut are taken primarily from the Torah but also include some additional rabbinical decrees. What follows is a summary of the basic laws of kashrut:

 

According to the Torah, only the meat and mild of animals with split hooves and that chew their cud can be eaten. The most commonly eaten animals are sheep, goats, lamb and cattle. Certain animals cannot be eaten at all including the flesh, organs, eggs and milk. They include pig, camel, rock badger and hare (Lev. 11.3)

 

The Torah also lists several species of birds that cannot be eaten, but most of them are unknown today. Because most of the birds identified as forbidden in the Torah were scavengers or birds of prey, this criterion is used to determine which birds are forbidden and which are kosher. Only birds that have traditionally been considered to be kosher can be eaten. These include chicken, duck, geese and turkey to name the most popular.

 

All crustaceans, shellfish, insects, rodents, reptiles and amphibians are forbidden with the exception of the locust. This includes lobsters, crabs, oysters, shrimp, and clamps. Fish that have scales and fins such as salmon, trout, pickerel, tuna and cod are kosher.

 

As well as allowing and forbidding certain foods, there are specific rules that must be followed in the preparation of birds and animals for food. They must be killed in accordance with Jewish Law.  All blood must be drained from the meat or the meat must be broiled to remove all blood.

 

Milk must not be stored, prepared along side or eaten with meat, including chicken. Some Jewish people also restrict the eating of meat and fish together.

 

Any utensils used to prepare, serve, eat or clean dishes after eating meat cannot be used with milk and vice versa. If a utensil is used with non-kosher food while it is hot, it cannot be used with kosher food.

 

Adapted from the Internet www.jewfaq.org/kashrut.htm


 Appendix 3: A Partial Chronology of Anti-Semitism

 

Date (CE)

Incident

209

Tertullian, a Church Father, writes Adversus Juderes against the Jewish people.

325

After the Council of Nicaea, the Church teaches that Jewish people must live in humiliation and seclusion from Christians.

386-7

St. John Chrysostom, delivers eight violently anti-Jewish sermons in Antioch.

438

Theodosius, eastern Roman Emperor, legalizes the inferiority of Jewish people (Turkey).

632

Heraclius, Byzantian Emperor, decrees forced baptism of Jewish people (Turkey).

633

Formulation of official Church document on the conversion of Jewish people in Spain.

638

King Chintilla, Visigoth King, proclaims that only Catholics may live in Spain.

694-711

All Jewish people in Spain declared slaves, their possessions confiscated, and their religion outlawed.

1012

Emperor Henry II of Germany expels Jewish people from Mainz, Germany.

1096-99

Crusaders massacre Jewish people in the Rhineland, Germany.

1144

First recorded blood libel takes place in Norwich, England.

1146

Anti-Jewish riots in the Rhineland, Germany.

1180

King Philip of France decrees the expulsion of Jewish people and the confiscation of their property.

1190

Anti-Jewish riots in England; massacre in York.

1215

The Church decrees that all Jewish people wear a distinctive badge.

1235

Blood libel in Germany.

1236

Severe anti-Jewish persecution in western France.

1240

Disputation in Paris leads to the burning of the Talmud.

1242

Burning of the Talmud in Paris.

1255

Blood Libel in Lincoln, England.

1263

Disputation at Barcelona, Spain.

1290

Expulsion of Jewish people from England.

1298-99

Rindfleisch, a knight, leads massacres of thousands of Jewish people in 146 places in Germany.

1306

Expulsion of Jewish people from France.

1320

Massacre of French Jewish people in 120 localities.

1321

Jewish people in France accused of collusion with lepers. Increased persecution ensues.

1322

Second great expulsion of Jewish people from France.

1348-50

Jewish people accused of causing the Black Death. Massacres spread through Spain, France, Germany, and Austria.

1391

Massacre in Prague, Czechoslovakia. Massacres and forced conversion in Spain.

1399    

Blood libel in Poland.

1413- 14

Disputations in Tortosa, Spain. Forced conversions and massacres.

1421

Persecution of Jewish people in Vienna, Austria including confiscation of possessions, forced conversion and burning people at the stake.

1421

Expulsion of Jewish people from Austria.

1435

Massacres and forced conversions in Majorca, Spain.

1438

Establishment of Ghettos in Morrocco.

1480

Inquisition established by the Church in Rome, Italy. Intended to investigate and force conversion.

1483    

Expulsion of Jewish people from Warsaw, Poland.

1490-91

Blood Libel at LaGuardia, Spain.

1492    

Expulsion of Jewish people from Spain.

1492-3

Expulsion of Jewish people from Sicily.

1495

Expulsion of Jewish people from Lithuania.

1496-7

Expulsion from Portugal; mass forced conversions.

1506

Massacre of Jewish people in Lisbon.

1510

Expulsion of Jewish people from Brandenberg, Germany.

1516

First Jewish ghetto in Venice, Italy.

1531

Inquisition established in Portugal.

1541

Expulsions of Jewish people from Naples, Italy and Prague, Czechoslovakia.

1544

In Germany, Martin Luther, leader of the Reformation, offers anti-Semitic homilies.

1551

Expulsion of Jewish people from Bavaria, Germany.

1569-93

Expulsion of Jewish people from the Papal States by the Pope (Rome, Italy).

1648-49

100,000 Jewish people massacred and 300 villages destroyed in the Ukraine.

1655-56

Massacres of Jewish people during wars of Poland against Russia and Sweden.

1670

Expulsion of Jewish people from Vienna, Austria; Blood libel in Metz, France.

1711

J.A Eisenmenger wrote Judaism Unmasked, against Jewish people (Germany).

1712

Blood libel at Sandomierz, Poland after which the Jewish people of the town were expelled.

1715

Pope Pius VI wrote Edict Concerning Jews in which he asked for a return to previous restrictions.

1734-36

Polish paramilitary attack Jewish people.

1745

Expulsion of Jewish people from Prague, Czechoslovakia.

1788

Polish Catholics massacre 20,000 Jewish people in Poland.

1790-92

Destruction of most of the Jewish communities in Morocco.

1819

Anti-Jewish riots in Germany.

1835

Czar Nicholas I of Russia passes legislation oppressive to Jews.

1853

Blood libel in Saratov, Russia.

1858

Abduction of a 7-year-old Jewish child in Bologna, Italy.

1878

Social Workers* Party and anti-Jewish party, started in Germany.

1879

Anti-Semitism defended in German universities. Term ‘Anti-Semitism’ coined.

1881-84

Pogroms in southern Russia. Jewish people move to North America and Western Europe.

1882

Blood libel in Tiszmeszier, Hungary.

1882

First international anti-Jewish Congress held in Dresden, Germany.

1882

Czar Alexander III of Russia removes Jewish people from public and economic positions.

1885

Expulsion of 10,000 Russian Jewish people.

1891

Blood libel in Xanten, Germany.

1891

Expulsion of Jewish people from Moscow, Russia.

1893

Anti-Semitic Christian Social Party established in Vienna, Austria.

1903

Pogrom in Kishinev, Russia & Ukraine (300 villages).

1906

Pogrom in Bialystok and Siedice, Russia.

1909-10

Polish boycott against Jewish people.

1913

Blood libel in Kiev, Russia.

1917-21

Pogroms in the Ukraine and Poland by German, Polish, and Ukraine soldiers.

1919

Abolition of Jewish organizations in Russia.

1920

In Germany, Adolph Hitler becomes Fuehrer of the National Socialist Democratic Party (later known as Nazis).

1924

Poland puts economic restrictions on Jewish people.

1925-27

Adolf Hitler publishes Mein Kampf in which he blames the Jewish people for Germany*s problems.

1933

Adolf Hitler made Chancellor of Germany. Jewish boycotts start.

1935

Nuremberg Laws introduced in Germany restricting Jewish people.

1935-45

Hitler continues campaign against Jewish people, culminating in the “Final Solution” - extermination and genocide.

 

 

 

Compiled by Eileen MacNevin; edited by M. Way Skinner 2001.


 

Appendix 4: Laws And Actions Directed Against Jews By Nazis  (Part I: 1933-1939)

 

 

1933-1939

 

Incident

 

 

January 30, 1933

 

Hitler becomes Chancellor of the German Reich.

 

April 1, 1933

 

Hitler announces a one-day boycott of all Jewish shops and businesses.

 

April 7, 1933

 

All non-Aryan civil servants (not military personnel) are forcibly retired.

 

April 21, 1933

 

Law enacted forbidding kosher butchering.

 

April 25, 1933

 

Few Non-Aryan children allowed into German schools and universities.

 

July 14, 1933

 

Law enabling authorities to revoke German citizenship of ‘undesirables”.

 

August 3, 1933

 

Hitler becomes president (as well as Chancellor) of the Third Reich.

 

September 6, 1935

 

Law enacted banning the sale of Jewish newspapers on the street

 

September 15, 1935

 

Nuremberg Laws enacted: Jewish people reduced to “Subjects” not citizens, all marriage/sexual relationships between Jewish people and Aryans forbidden, Aryans under age 35 are no longer permitted to be employed as servant to Jewish people.

 

March 7, 1936

 

Voting rights for Jewish people are revoked.

 

July 2, 1937

 

More Jewish students are removed from German universities and schools.

 

November 16, 1937

 

Travel outside Germany is forbidden for Jewish people, with a few exceptions.

 

July 16, 1938

 

Jewish people forbidden work as brokers, matchmakers, guides and real-estate agents.

 

July 23, 1938

 

Jewish people must carry identification cards.

 

July 25, 1938

 

Jewish doctors not allowed to practice; many rehired as “medical attendants.”

 

July 27, 1938

 

“Jewish” street names are replaced.

 

August 17, 1938

 

All Jewish people must have only Jewish first names.

 

October 5, 1938

 

All Jewish passports are marked with a “J”.

 

November 9-10, 1938

 

Kristallnacht: a state organized destruction of Jewish homes, businesses, and synagogues; thousands of Jewish men deported to Dachau.

 

November 11, 1938

 

Jewish people may no longer carry own guns.

 

November 12, 1938

 

Jewish people throughout the Reich are fined one billion Reichmarks for “causing” Kristallnacht destruction. Jewish people may no longer own/head business, are forbidden to attend public performances of plays, movies, concerts, etc.

 

November 15, 1938

 

Remaining Jewish students moved from German schools to Jewish schools.

 

November 28, 1938

 

A curfew is imposed on Jewish people throughout the Reich.

 

December 3, 1938

 

Jewish people banned from the streets on Nazi holidays, forbidden to drive & own cars, and must sell their jewelry, property, investments, and businesses.

 

December 8, 1938

 

Remaining Jewish students removed from universities throughout the Reich.

 

September 3, 1939

 

Curfew for Jewish people is made more stringent 9 p.m. in summer, 8 p.m. in winter.

 

September 23, 1939

 

Jewish people must hand over radios to the police.

 

October 12, 1939

 

Austrian Jewish people deported to Poland.

 

November 23, 1939

 

Polish Jewish people must wear a yellow star of David.

 

Compiled by Eileen MacNevin; revised by M. Way Skinner, 2000.


Appendix 4: Laws And Actions Directed Against Jews By Nazis  (Part II: 1940-1945)

 

 

1940-1944


Incident

 

February 6, 1940

 

Jewish people forbidden to receive clothing coupons, unlike the rest of German people.

 

February 12, 1940

 

More Jewish people taken into “protective custody” (meaning deported to concentration camps).

 

July 29, 1940

 

Jewish people forbidden to have telephones.

 

December 24, 1940

 

A special income tax imposed on Jewish people.

 

September 1, 1941

 

German Jewish people must wear a Star of David & forbidden to leave their homes without police permission.

 

October 24, 1941

 

Jewish people forbidden to have friendships with Aryans.

 

December 26, 1941

 

Jewish people forbidden to use public telephones.

 

January 10, 1942

 

Jewish people must hand over to authorities any wool and fur clothing in their own.


 

February 17, 1942

 

Jew forbidden to subscribe to newspapers or magazines.

 

April 17, 1942

 

A Jewish apartment must be labeled as such with a Star of David.

 

April 24, 1942

 

Jewish people no longer allowed to use public transportation.

 

May 15, 1942

 

Jewish people forbidden to keep pets.

 

May 29, 1942

 

Jewish people forbidden to use public barber shops.

 

June 9, 1942

 

Jewish people must hand over to authorities all “spare” clothing.

 

June 11, 1942

 

Jewish people no longer allowed to receive smoking coupons.

 

June 19, 1942

 

Jewish people must hand over all electrical equipment, typewriters, & bicycles.

 

June 20, 1942

 

All Jewish schools are closed.

 

July 17, 1942

 

Blind/deaf Jewish people not permitted to wear bands identifying handicap in traffic.

 

September 9, 1942

 

Jewish people no longer allowed to bring civil suits in a court of law.

 

September 18, 1942

 

Jewish people no longer permitted to buy meat, milk, or eggs.

 

October 4, 1942

 

Jewish people living in German concentration camps moved to Auschwitz death camp.

 

April 21, 1943

 

Jewish people convicted of crimes are to be exterminated in death camps after serving their sentences.

 

July 1, 1943

 

Property of Jewish people to be confiscated after their deaths.

 

1943-1944

 

The Final Solution: Total extermination of Jewish people.  Millions of Jews exterminated in death camps.

 

Compiled by Eileen MacNevin, revised by M. Way Skinner, 2000.

 

 


Appendix 5: Identification Cards

 

 

IDENTIFICATION CARD           

 

 

This card was prepared for a Holocaust presentation

by Michael Way Skinner, Dean of Religion at Sacred

Heart Catholic High School in Newmarket, Ontario.

It is based on cards from the Holocaust Memorial

Museum in Washington, DC. 

Many thanks to Mary Ann Leonard of the museum

staff for her assistance.  Thanks to Mrs. Nancy Dyer

 for her assistance in putting these cards together.

April 2000

M.  Way Skinner

 

 

 

 

 

__________________Catholic High School


 

 

 

 

 

IDENTIFICATION CARD           

 

 

This card was prepared for a Holocaust presentation

 by Michael Way Skinner, Dean of Religion at Sacred

 Heart Catholic High School in Newmarket, Ontario.

 It is based on cards from the Holocaust Memorial

Museum in Washington, D.C. 

Many thanks to Mary Ann Leonard of the museum

staff for her assistance.  Thanks to Mrs. Nancy Dyer

 for her assistance in putting these cards together.

April 2000

M.  Way Skinner

 

 

 

 

 

__________________Catholic High School


 

 


Appendix 6: Prayer Service - In Our Time & Place

 

Introduction

 

We are called, in our time, in our place, to remember.

It is easy to hear dates and numbers, laws and statistics, and forget...the people...the lives...the tears...

Yet, that is where the power of the Holocaust - that great time of night and darkness - exerted it’s strongest force.

We remember, here and now, so that those who died will be honoured, and those who lived will not remember alone.

The time for silence is over. 

The time for complacency has ended.

The time to act is now.

The place for action is here.

We remember because we need Justice now.

We remember because we still hate, we still exclude, we still destroy.

 

Reading #1: Hebrew Scriptures (Isaiah 58:6-12)

 

Is not this the type of fast that pleases me...to break unjust chains and to undo the burden of others, to let the oppressed go free, ... to share your bread with the hungry poor, and to shelter the homeless poor, to clothe the naked, and not turn away from your own?  Then, will your light shine like the dawn and your wound be quickly healed. If you do away with the clenched fist, the wicked word,... your light will rise in the darkness and your shadows become like noon...

 

Reading #2: Pastor Martin Niemöller

 

In Germany they first came for the Communists and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Communist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Jew.

Then they came for the trade unionists, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a trade unionist.

They came for the Catholics, and I didn't speak up because I was a Protestant.

Then they came for me...and by that time no one was left to speak up.

 

 Menorah Ceremony: Remembering Here & Now

 

We honour those who came before us when we bring the lessons of their lives into our own.  We light a candle for each lesson we have learned from the Holocaust.  May the light of each candle stay with us as we face the moments of night in our own school & community.

 

1. Hitler eliminated anyone who was different - not only six million Jews, but five million others as well.  These people died because they were disabled, racially different, homosexual. They were the others.

 

We light this candle to remember these people.  May we know their courage.

May the light of this candle enter my heart as I reflect…

 

How often do I spend time with the physically and mentally challenged students here at our school?

How often do I make fun of people who are different?

How often do I exclude those who disagree?

 


2.  Hitler depended on the silence of good people to accomplish his evil.

 

We light this candle for those who suffered while others did nothing.  May we know their strength.

May the light of this candle enter my heart as I reflect...

 

How many times have I been silent when I should have spoken up?

When have I heard a racist, sexist, or homophobic comment and been silent?

 

3.  Hitler imprisoned people who committed no crime.  He eliminated people for being who they were - something over which they had no control.

 

We light this candle to remember these people.  May we know their pride.

May the light of this candle enter my heart as I reflect...

 

Whom do I condemn for reasons they cannot control?

 

4.  Hitler passed laws that gradually took away people’s rights.

 

We light this candle in their memory.  May we know their sense of freedom.

May the light of this candle enter my heart as I reflect...

 

How aware am I of the politics of my own province and country?

How much do I care when I see others protest for rights?

 

5.  Hitler accomplished his evil with assistance from others.

 

We light this candle for those who died resisting.  May we know their power.

May the light of this candle enter my heart as I reflect...

 

When have I done things I know I should not have?

When have my actions betrayed my heart?

When have I ever assisted another’s wrongdoing with my actions?

 

6.  Hitler persecuted Gypsies for being “impure” and “criminals.”

 

We light this candle in memory of these people.  May we know their purity.

May the light of this candle enter my heart as I reflect...

 

How aware am I of the homeless and wanderers in my city?

Who are the wanderers, those with no place, here at our school?

 

7.  Hitler was resisted by people of true vision who refused to cooperate.  The Danes, for example, saved 97% of their Jewish population through active non-cooperation with the Nazis.

 

We light this candle in memory of these people.  May we know their faith.

May the light of this candle enter my heart as I reflect...

 

When have I felt empowered to resist the clenched fist and the harsh word?

When have I resisted, purely because I believe?

 

8.      Hitler failed to eliminate the people he hated.  Many people survived.

 

We light this candle in memory of the survivors.  May we know their gratitude.

May the light of this candle enter my heart as I reflect...

 

For what am I grateful in my life right now, right here?

For whom am I grateful in my life right now, right here?

 

Song: “Don’t Laugh At Me” by Mark Wills
Appendix 7:  Words Written in a Concentration Camp

 

When a Nazi concentration camp was liberated, this prayer by a Jewish prisoner was found on a scrap of paper.

 

Peace be to those of bad will, and an end to all revenge, and to all words of pain and punishment.

 

So many have borne witness with their blood.

 

O God, do not put their suffering on the scales of your Justice,

Let it not be counted against the executioner,

lest he be brought to answer for his atrocities.

 

But to all the executioners and informers, to all the traitors, to all the evil ones,

Do grant them the benefit of the courage and fortitudes shown by those others, who were their victims…

                                                                                                                                                                    

Grant the benefit of the burning love and sacrifice in those harrowed, tortured hearts,

Which remained strong and steadfast in the face of death and unto their weakest hour.

 

All this, O Lord, may it count in your eyes, so that their sin be forgiven.

 

May this be the ransom that restores justice.

 

And all that is good, Let it be counted,

And all that is evil, Let it be wiped out...

 

May peace come once more upon this earth,

Peace to people of good will

and may it descend upon the others also.            

Amen.