Our Holy Father, the Pope: The Papacy from Saint Peter to the Present
What’s inside...
Our Holy Father, the Pope is a beautifully illustrated children's book that explores the origins and role of the Papacy, starting with Jesus calling Simon, renaming him Peter, and giving him the keys to the kingdom. It follows Peter through key events such as Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection, the descent of the Holy Spirit, the birth of the Church, and Peter's martyrdom. The book explains the continuity of the Church with new leaders and shows that the tasks of modern popes align with those of Peter. It includes brief biographies of famous popes, a complete list of popes, and features illustrations by Emmanuel Beaudesson.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-7
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the role of the Pope is important in the world?
What qualities do you think make a good leader, like the Pope?
How has the role of the Pope changed from Saint Peter to the present?
What did you learn about different Popes and their impact on history?
How do you think the decisions of the Pope affect people around the world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on leadership and responsibility by comparing the role of the Pope to other leaders they know, such as teachers or community leaders. Ask them to think about how a leader’s decisions can affect others. Additionally, delve into history with your child by exploring how different Popes have influenced global events. This will provide a deeper context to their understanding and enhance their engagement with the book’s content.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Leadership and Responsibility
Explanation: The book traces the role of the Pope from Saint Peter to the present, illustrating the responsibilities and leadership qualities necessary to guide others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these lessons by taking initiative in group activities and learning to make decisions that consider the well-being of everyone involved.
Example Lesson: Historical Knowledge
Explanation: Through detailed narratives about various Popes over the centuries, children gain insights into important historical and religious figures.
Real-World Application: This knowledge enhances a child's understanding of world history and religions, promoting respect and appreciation for diverse cultures.
Example Lesson: Values of Humility and Service
Explanation: The book highlights the Pope’s role as a servant leader, emphasizing humility and service to others.
Real-World Application: Children can embrace these values in their daily interactions by helping peers, respecting authority, and contributing to their community.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Tradition
Explanation: By explaining the lineage and traditions of the Papacy, the book provides children with an understanding of the role traditions play in societal cohesion.
Real-World Application: Children learn to value and uphold the traditions in their family and community, recognizing their role in linking the past with the future.
Example Lesson: Perseverance Through Adversity
Explanation: The book covers periods of turmoil and challenge for the Papacy, showing that perseverance and faith can lead to overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of resilience and maintaining belief in their principles, even when faced with difficulties.