Matthew 16 and the papal conclave for kids

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emblem of the Papacy: Triple tiara and keys Fr...

Since Sacred Scripture is at the center of our homeschool, I decided to begin our studies on the papal conclave with a look at the origins of the papacy in Matthew 16. We have been reading The Golden Children's Bible chronologically. We are just finishing the Sermon on the Mount with a unit on the parable of the wise and foolish builders. Reading Matthew 16 at this point provides a good bridge to studies of the pope.

For the best start to this unit, you (the parent) should prayerfully read Matthew 7:24-27 and 16:14-20 ahead of time. Make it the subject of your daily meditation. (If you don't know how to do Christian meditation, read my recent post on mental prayer, or see this sample meditation.) You may want to share your insights or resolutions with your kids in the course of your studies. Then use as many of the following activities as you see fit.

View the whole lesson plan.

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