Dear Catholic Exchange:
Hello, I was wondering if you could help me with a question. I am an administrator and a teacher at a non-denominational Christian Montessori School. We teach Bible to the children on a daily basis. We try to stay away from the denominational differences and just teach what is in the Bible.
We spent a year studying the Old Testament followed by a year of the life of Jesus. This year we are studying the books of Acts, Fruits of the Spirit, and the Armor of God. Up to this point things have gone smoothly with no offense to any denomination.
The children have asked many questions about the end times. We have decided to study the three different views on the millennium. One of the other administrators is concerned that we may offend those in the sacramental denominations such as the Catholics. My question is: “How can we present this material based on the truth we find in scripture and not contradict what some may be taught in their own churches? “Do Catholics believe in the Rapture, that Christ will return first for the dead in Christ and then the living Christians and that we will be caught up in the air with him and brought to the Father as indicated in 2 Thessalonians? What are the thoughts on the millennium? Do you have any suggestions on how to present this material in a way as to not offend anyone? What are your thoughts on the Left Behind Series? Any help you can give me would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Carolyn Owens
Michiana Christian Montessori School
Elkhart, IN
Dear Ms. Owens:
Here's a good starter on the Catholic perspective concerning the Rapture and the Left Behind series: The Left Behind Books: Harmless Fiction or Anti-Catholic Propaganda?
Mark Shea
Senior Content Editor
Catholic Exchange
Mark Shea is Senior Content Editor for Catholic Exchange. You may visit his website at www.mark-shea.com check out his blog, Catholic and Enjoying It!, or purchase his books and tapes here.
