The eighth grade curriculum begins with the Commissioning/Pentecost lesson, setting the history of the church in the context of the work of the Holy Spirit and climaxes with the celebration of Confirmation. The church is presented as the body of Christ, the continuation in time and space of his mission carried out by his followers through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Members of the church have responded in many creative ways to the call of God in various times and places; emphasis on "call & response", "vocation", "signs of the times".

The church, like individual Christians, is both saved and not-yet-saved, holy and not-yet-holy - therefore in constant need of reflection, repentance, renewal.

FOCUS - The Church is the Christian Community in Action, Strong in the Spirit
Salvation History Part III: History of the Church

Process
Presentation of a Period in Church History
Research of People, Places, Events
Reflection
Sharing
Responding to Basic Questions:
Basic questions always asked: What is the Church? How do I fit in? What does this mean to me today?

Themes:
Church History - Knowing who we are and who we can be, requires knowing our past.
Holy Spirit  - soul, unity and life-force of the church
                    - inspiration and strength of individual Christians
Incarnation - the Church continues the mission, values, methods and presence of Jesus
Confirmation - Commitment; Mission

Basic Knowledge and Skills
Historical facts: significant people and events
The Church: What is it? Its' structure, growth, mission, spirituality, struggles, ritual
Research
Relating themes of the past to continuing issues we face today

Activities: Reflection on research material will take the form of creative expressions, such as, discussions, presentations, debates, field trips, guest speakers, art, music, retreat, etc.

Service: Reaching out to others in need. Relating these activities to the curriculum - and the continuing mission of the Church. Parent help is needed.