Diocese of Virac

Commission on Youth Apostolate

Risen Christ Complex, Moonwalk Virac, Catanduanes

Faith: A Treasure Hidden

Within Us
(A Recollection Module for Grade 7 Students)
 Foreword
Dear Young Pilgrims in Christ,

Welcome to this special recollection journey, Faith: A

Treasure Hidden Within Us. As you take part in this spiritual
experience, may you discover the beauty and richness of the faith
that God has planted deep within your hearts.

At this stage in your life, you may have many questions

about yourself, the world, and your relationship with God. Like a
hidden treasure waiting to be found, faith is something that grows
as we seek, listen, and open our hearts to God's presence.
Through prayer, reflection, and sharing, may this recollection help
you uncover the true value of faith in your life—guiding you to
trust in God’s love, walk in His light, and embrace His call with joy.

May the Holy Spirit inspire and strengthen you on this

journey, leading you to a deeper understanding of God’s presence
in your life. Remember, faith is not just a gift to be received but a
treasure to be lived and shared. May you always cherish it and
allow it to shine brightly in your words and actions.
God bless you on this beautiful journey of discovery!

In Christ,
Rev. Fr. Nestor Perpetuo T. Pastor
Diocesan Youth Director
Recollection Module for Grade 7 Students
Theme: Faith: A Treasure Hidden Within Us
Objective:
To help students understand the value of the Faith in their personal
growth and how it relates to their personal lives, encouraging them to
prioritize what is truly important.
Overview:
Faith, often described as
a treasure hidden within us, is
a profound and deeply
personal belief that
transcends mere
understanding. It's the inner
compass that guides us
through the storms of life,
providing strength, comfort,
and hope even in the darkest
of times.
Like a hidden gem waiting to
be discovered, faith dwells
within the depths of our being,
sometimes obscured by doubt or overshadowed by fear. Yet, when unearthed
and embraced, it becomes a source of immeasurable richness, enriching our
lives with meaning and purpose.
Faith is not confined to any specific religion or creed; rather, it is a universal
human experience that transcends cultural boundaries and ideological
differences. It is the essence of trust and confidence in something greater
than ourselves, whether that be a higher power, the inherent goodness of
humanity, or the interconnectedness of all living beings.
In times of uncertainty and adversity, faith serves as a beacon of light,
illuminating our path and guiding us towards brighter tomorrows. It teaches
us to persevere in the face of challenges, to find solace in moments of
despair, and to cultivate compassion and empathy for ourselves and others.
Ultimately, faith is a treasure that lies dormant within each of us, waiting to
be uncovered and cherished. It is a gift that empowers us to navigate the
complexities of life with courage and resilience, reminding us that, no matter
how daunting the journey may seem, we are never alone.
 Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, Source of All Light, As we gather together in this
space, we pause to acknowledge your presence among us. We come before
you with hearts open and minds ready to learn, to grow, and to support one
another in our journey through high school.
We recognize the blessings that surround us each day—the gift of
friendship, the opportunity to learn and discover, and the chance to make a
positive impact in our communities. Help us to appreciate these blessings
and to use them wisely for the greater good.
Grant us the strength to navigate the challenges that come our way—
the pressures of academics, the complexities of relationships, and the
uncertainties of the future. May we face these challenges with resilience,
knowing that we are supported by your love and grace.
Guide us in our quest for knowledge and understanding. May we
approach our studies with diligence and curiosity, seeking not only to expand
our minds but also to deepen our appreciation for the wonders of the world
around us.
Help us to cultivate compassion and empathy for our fellow students
and for all those we encounter. May we strive to build a community where
everyone feels valued, respected, and included, regardless of their
background or beliefs.
As we embark on this new day together, we ask for your guidance and
blessings. May our words be filled with kindness, our actions with integrity,
and our hearts with love.
Bless our teachers, our families, and all those who support us in our
educational journey. May they find joy and fulfillment in their work, knowing
that they are making a difference in the lives of young people like us. In your
name, we pray. Amen."
I. Ice Breaker: Two Truths and a Lie
Objective:
The "Two Truths and a Lie" icebreaker is more than just a fun game; it
can serve as a tool for self-reflection and personal insight. When participants
choose their truths and a lie, they often reveal what they consider important
or noteworthy about themselves. This can lead to a deeper understanding of
one's values, experiences, and how they wish to be perceived by others.
Furthermore, this activity can encourage participants to reflect on the
nature of truth and deception in their lives. It can prompt discussions about
authenticity, trust, and the complexities of human interactions. By sharing
personal stories, students can connect with one another on a more
meaningful level, setting the stage for a day of introspection and community
building.
Materials Needed:
1: White board or Black Board
2. Chalk or Marker
Instruction:
1. Select one student that will serve as the patron and ask him/her to
write 3 adjectives that describes him/herself and that 2 of that
adjectives are true and 1 is false.
2. Now, ask the other participants to select one among the 3 adjectives
that they find true to the patron selected.
3. Those who answer wrongly will be eliminated and those who answer
correctly will proceed.
4. Now select another student that will do the same as the 1 st student
selected.
5. The other students again will be ask to choose which among the
adjectives they find true to the patron.
6. Go on until 1 student remains.
Deepening Reflection:
In "Two Truths and a Lie," participants are tasked with sharing three
statements about themselves: two truths and one lie. The challenge lies in
discerning which statement is false. As we engage in this activity, we not
only learn interesting facts about each other but also uncover truths about
ourselves and the nature of our relationships.
First, let's consider the truths we share. In this game, we reveal
aspects of our lives that are genuine and authentic. These truths reflect who
we are—our experiences, passions, and values. Similarly, in our spiritual
journey, we are called to live lives of truth and integrity. We are called to
embrace our authentic selves and to walk in the light of God's truth.
But alongside these truths, we also encounter the lie—the deception
hidden among the truths. This reminds us of the presence of falsehood and
deceit in our world. Just as we must discern the lie in the game, we are called
to discern the lies that threaten to lead us astray in our spiritual lives. These
lies may take the form of temptations, distractions, or false ideologies that
seek to distort the truth of God's love and purpose for us.
Yet, in the midst of these truths and lies, there is a deeper truth that shines
through—the truth of God's unwavering love and grace. No matter how well
we hide behind our truths or how convincingly we present our lies, God sees
us as we truly are. He knows the depths of our hearts and loves us
unconditionally.
As we reflect on "Two Truths and a Lie," let us consider how we can live
lives of authenticity, discernment, and grace. Let us strive to walk in the
truth of God's love, rejecting the lies that seek to separate us from Him. And
may we always remember that in Christ, we find the ultimate truth—the
truth that sets us free.
Session I: Reading and Reflection on the Gospel of Matthew 13:45-
46
“The kingdom of heaven is like
a treasure buried in a field, which a
person finds and hides again, and out
of joy goes and sells all that he has
and buys that field. Again, the
kingdom of heaven is like a merchant
searching for fine pearls. When he
finds a pearl of great price, he goes
and sells all that he has and buys it.

Session I: Reading and Reflection on the Gospel of Matthew 13:45-

46

Nature: Modified Lecture

Objectives
By the end of this session, participants should be able to:
1. Understand the key themes of the Gospel of Matthew, particularly
Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises.
2. Recognize how Jesus' teachings invite them to deepen their faith and
live as disciples.
3. Reflect on a specific passage from Matthew and relate it to their
personal faith journey.
4. Develop a greater appreciation for Scripture as a guide for daily life.

Content Procedure
This session invites the participants A. Opening Prayer (5 minutes)
to explore the Gospel of Matthew,  A simple invocation asking the
focusing on its central themes of Holy Spirit for wisdom and
Jesus as the Messiah, the fulfillment understanding.
of God's promises, and the call to  Reading of a short passage
live as disciples in the Kingdom of (e.g., Matthew 5:14-16, "You
God. The session will highlight key are the light of the world").
passages that reveal Jesus' B. Introduction to the Gospel of
teachings, particularly from the Matthew (10 minutes)
Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–  Brief background on Matthew
7), the Parables of the Kingdom, and as a Gospel writer.
His call to faith and trust in God.  Discussion on its key themes,
Participants will engage in: especially Jesus as the
 A prayerful reading of selected fulfillment of the Old
passages from the Gospel of Testament.
Matthew.  Importance of faith,
 Reflection on Jesus' message discipleship, and the Kingdom
of faith, hope, and love. of God.
 Discussion on how these C. Scripture Reading and
teachings apply to their lives Reflection (20 minutes)
as young disciples.  Participants take turns reading
a selected passage (e.g.,
Beatitudes, Matthew 5:1-12).
 Silent reflection: How does this
passage speak to my life
today?
 Sharing of insights in small
groups or as a whole group.
D. Application: Living the Gospel
Message (15 minutes)
 Discussion: How can we apply
Jesus’ teachings in our daily
lives?
 Personal commitment: Each
participant writes one
concrete way they will live out
the Gospel this week.
E. Closing Prayer and Sending
Forth (5 minutes)
 Prayer of gratitude for the
Word of God.
 A short blessing and
encouragement to live the
Gospel in their daily lives.

Reflection:
In our Gospel passage from Matthew 13:45-46, we encounter one such
parable—the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price. It's a story that speaks to the
depths of our hearts, calling us to ponder the true worth of the kingdom of
heaven and the radical response it demands from us.
Imagine with me for a moment: a merchant, well-versed in the trade of
precious gems, diligently seeking beautiful pearls. Day after day, he scours
the markets and travels far and wide in search of the most exquisite
treasures. And then, one day, his efforts are rewarded as he stumbles upon a
pearl unlike any other—a pearl of great price.
But this pearl is no ordinary gem; it is a pearl of incomparable beauty
and value, a pearl that captures the very essence of perfection. Recognizing
its worth, the merchant is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice—he sells all
that he has, pouring out his wealth and resources, in order to possess this
priceless treasure.
My friends, this parable beckons us to consider: What is the pearl of
great price in our own lives? What is it that we value above all else, that we
would be willing to sacrifice everything to attain?

Faith as Our Pearl:

What is this pearl of great price? For us, it can be many things, but
above all, it symbolizes our faith. Faith is our most valuable possession
because it connects us to God, guides our actions, and gives our lives
meaning beyond the material world.
The Longing:
We all long for something that will give us joy, peace, and fulfillment. In
our search for happiness, we may pursue many things, but the parable
teaches us that faith is the ultimate treasure, worth more than all our other
pursuits combined.
The Cost:
The merchant sold everything to obtain the pearl. Similarly, embracing
faith might require sacrifice. It might mean changing our priorities, letting go
of certain desires, or standing up for what we believe in, even when it's not
popular.
The Reward:
But what we gain is immeasurable. With faith, we gain a relationship
with God, a compass for our moral and ethical decisions, and a community
that supports and uplifts us. We gain the promise of eternal life, a hope that
sustains us through the trials of this world.
Conclusion:
As we go forth today, let's reflect on what our pearl of great price is.
What are we willing to give up to gain something far greater? Let's cherish
our faith, nurture it, and let it guide us to the treasure that is the Kingdom of
Heaven.
Health Break

Overview
Faith is one of the greatest treasures we can ever receive. In this
session, we will reflect on the parable of the pearl of great price (Matthew
13:45-46) and explore how faith is a precious gift that gives true meaning
and direction to our lives. Just as the merchant in the parable was willing to
give up everything for the pearl, we, too, are called to seek, cherish, and
nurture our faith with commitment and love. Through reflection, sharing,
and prayer, we will deepen our understanding of faith as a treasure worth
pursuing.

Objectives
By the end of this session, participants should be able to:
1. Understand the significance of the parable of the pearl of great price
in relation to faith.
2. Reflect on the value of faith in their own lives and why it is worth
pursuing.
3. Identify ways to deepen and strengthen their faith through prayer,
action, and trust in God.
4. Be inspired to seek and cherish their faith as a treasure beyond
material possessions.

Content: Procedure
This session highlights: A. Opening Prayer (5 minutes)
 The meaning of the parable of  Prayer asking for the grace to
understand and embrace faith as a
the pearl of great price. treasure.
 The value of faith in our  Recap of the Text Matthew 13:45-46
personal journey with Christ. (The Parable of the Pearl of Great
 The sacrifices and Price).
commitments needed to B. Modified Lecture (30 minutes)
1. The Journey of Discovery
strengthen and live out our 2. Cultivating Faith through Reflection:
faith. 3. Strength in Times of Challenge
4. Connecting with God our Creator:
5. Living Out Our Values:
6. Conclusion:

C. Personal Reflection and Group

Sharing (10 minutes)
  Silent reflection: “What does faith
mean to me? Do I treat it as a
valuable treasure?”
 Sharing of insights in small groups:
How have I experienced faith as
something precious in my life?
 Testimonies (if applicable): A few
volunteers share personal
experiences of how faith has guided
them through challenges.
D. Application: Nurturing Our Faith (15
minutes)
 Discussion on practical ways to grow
in faith (prayer, sacraments, service,
reading Scripture).
 Activity: Writing a “Faith
Commitment Card” where each
participant writes one concrete way
they will value and grow their faith.
E. Closing Prayer and Commissioning (5
minutes)
 Prayer of gratitude for the gift of
faith.
 Sending forth: Encouragement to
treasure and nurture faith in daily
life.

Session II : Faith as the Valuable Pearl that we long for.

Talk:
In the Bible especially in
the Gospels, Faith, often
depicted as the "valuable
pearl". It holds a profound
significance in the human
experience. Just as a pearl is
formed through layers of care
and time, faith develops
through a journey of
contemplation, questioning,
and ultimately, surrender to
something greater than
oneself. In the vast ocean of human experience, faith shines like a precious
pearl, offering guidance, strength, and meaning amidst life's ebb and flow.
Much like a diver embarks on a quest to uncover hidden treasures beneath
the waves, we too embark on a journey of discovery, seeking to understand
the depths of our beliefs and the mysteries of existence. Join us as we dive
into the profound metaphor of faith as the valuable pearl that we long for,
exploring its significance and implications for our lives.
1. The Journey of Discovery:
 Faith is not something we are born with; it's a journey of exploration
and discovery. Much like a diver searching for treasures in the ocean,
we delve into the depths of our beliefs, seeking understanding and
clarity amidst life's complexities.
 This journey involves asking questions, seeking answers, and being
open to new perspectives. It's a process of self-discovery and growth,
where we learn more about ourselves and the world around us.

2. Cultivating Faith through Reflection:

 Cultivating faith requires introspection and reflection. It's about
examining our beliefs, values, and experiences, and understanding
why we hold certain convictions.
 Like polishing a pearl to reveal its luster, reflecting on our faith helps
us refine and deepen our understanding. We engage in dialogue with
others, study religious texts or philosophical teachings, and
contemplate the mysteries of existence.

3. Strength in Times of Challenge:

 Faith provides strength and resilience during times of adversity. When
faced with challenges, setbacks, or uncertainties, faith becomes a
beacon of hope, guiding us through the darkness.
 Like a pearl's radiant glow, faith illuminates our path, reminding us of
our inner strength and capacity to overcome obstacles. It instills
confidence and courage, empowering us to persevere and emerge
stronger from life's trials.

4. Connecting with God our Creator:

 Faith fosters a sense of connection with something greater than
ourselves. Whether it's a belief in a divine power, the
interconnectedness of all life, or the wonder of the universe, faith
expands our perspective and deepens our appreciation for the
mysteries of existence.
 This connection brings a profound sense of awe, gratitude, and
humility. It reminds us that we are part of something vast and
wondrous, encouraging us to approach life with reverence and wonder.

5. Living Out Our Values:

  Faith is not just a set of beliefs; it's a way of life. It inspires us to
embody our values and principles in our actions and interactions with
others.
 Like a pearl's iridescent beauty, living out our faith radiates positivity
and goodness into the world. It motivates us to act with kindness,
compassion, and integrity, making a positive difference in the lives of
those around us.

Conclusion:
In the intricate tapestry of human existence, faith emerges as a
luminous thread, weaving together the fabric of our beliefs, values, and
aspirations. Just as a pearl's iridescent beauty captivates the beholder, faith
enchants our hearts, offering solace, inspiration, and profound meaning
amidst life's uncertainties.

Through the journey of faith, we discover the transformative power of

belief, transcending the limitations of the material world to glimpse the
eternal truths that lie beyond. Like skilled artisans shaping a precious gem,
we nurture our faith through introspection, reflection, and compassionate
action, polishing it to reveal its innate brilliance. As we navigate the currents
of existence, faith becomes our guiding star, leading us through the darkest
nights and the stormiest seas. It infuses our lives with purpose, meaning, and
sacredness, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary and the
mundane into the miraculous.
In the embrace of faith, we find not only comfort but also courage, not
only solace but also strength. It empowers us to face life's challenges with
resilience and grace, to celebrate its joys with gratitude and humility, and to
navigate its complexities with wisdom and compassion.
As we conclude our exploration of faith as the valuable pearl that we
long for, let us carry its radiant light within us, shining forth as beacons of
hope and love in a world often shrouded in darkness. For in the depths of our
souls, faith remains a timeless treasure, guiding us ever closer to the divine
and the infinite, and illuminating our journey with its eternal glow.
Workshop: Prioritizing Our Pearls
Objective:
To enable students to recognize their personal "pearls" (values, goals,
relationships) and learn how to prioritize them in a way that aligns with their
pursuit of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Materials Needed:
 Pens and paper for each student.
 "Pearl" tokens (could be beads, stones, or any small item) – at least 10
per student.
 Large jars or containers – one per group.
 Flip chart or whiteboard.
 Markers.

Duration: (Approximately 30 Minutes.)

Instructions:

1. Introduction
o Explain the concept of the "pearl of great price" and how it can
relate to things we value in life.
o Discuss the idea of the Faith and what it might represent for each
person.

2. Personal Reflection (5 minutes)

o Ask students to spend a few minutes reflecting on their own
"pearls" – these could be family, friends, aspirations, talents,
faith, etc.
 o Have them write down their top 10 "pearls" on paper.
3. Pearl Ranking
o Distribute 10 "pearl" tokens to each student.
o Instruct them to assign a token to each of their 10 "pearls,"
placing more tokens on the pearls they value most.
4. Group Discussion
o Form small groups and have students share their top "pearls"
and why they prioritized them as they did.
o Encourage a discussion on how these "pearls" can be aligned
with their understanding of the Kingdom of Heaven.
5. Collective Prioritization
o Each group receives a jar to represent the Kingdom of Heaven.
o Students must decide which "pearls" are most important for the
group and place tokens in the jar, symbolizing their collective
values and priorities.
6. Reflection and Sharing
o Groups share their jars and explain their choices.
o Facilitate a discussion on how this exercise might influence their
daily decisions and life priorities.
7. Closing
o Summarize the key takeaways from the workshop.
o End with a short reflection or prayer, inviting students to commit
to prioritizing their "pearls" in a way that reflects their pursuit of
a meaningful life and the Kingdom of Heaven.

Points for Reflection

1. What does faith mean to you 7. How do you seek to deepen

personally? your faith?
Reflect on your own Consider the practices,
understanding and experience of rituals, and spiritual disciplines that
faith. Consider how it influences help you nurture and deepen your
your beliefs, values, and actions. faith. Reflect on the importance of
ongoing learning, prayer,
2. How has your faith evolved meditation, or service in your faith
over time? journey.
Think about how your beliefs
and perspectives have changed as 8. In what ways does your faith
you've grown and encountered new connect you to something
experiences. Consider the factors greater than yourself?
that have shaped your faith journey. Reflect on moments of awe,
wonder, or transcendence that
3. What challenges have you you've experienced through your
faced in your faith journey? faith. Consider how your beliefs
Reflect on moments of doubt, connect you to the divine, nature,
uncertainty, or adversity that have humanity, or the universe.
tested your faith. Consider how
you've navigated these challenges 9. What lessons have you
and what you've learned from them. learned from other faith
traditions?
4. In what ways does your faith Explore the insights and
provide strength and resilience? wisdom found in diverse religious
Explore how your faith has and spiritual traditions. Consider
helped you cope with difficult times how learning about other faiths has
and overcome obstacles. Consider enriched your own understanding
the sources of strength and and perspective.
inspiration that your faith provides.
10. How does your faith inspire
5. How does your faith inspire hope and optimism for the
you to live out your values? future?
Reflect on how your beliefs Reflect on the ways in which
influence your behavior and your beliefs give you hope and
decision-making. Consider how your confidence in the face of uncertainty
faith motivates you to act with and challenges. Consider how your
kindness, compassion, and integrity. faith inspires you to work towards a
better world.
6. What role does community
play in your faith journey? 11. In what ways does your faith
Think about the importance of bring joy and fulfillment into
community, fellowship, and shared your life?
beliefs in your faith experience. Consider the moments of joy,
Consider how relationships with gratitude, and fulfillment that you
others shape and support your experience through your faith.
spiritual growth. Reflect on how your beliefs enrich
your life and bring meaning to
everyday experiences.

12. How do you share the gift of

faith with others?
Reflect on how you share your
beliefs, values, and experiences with
others. Consider how you can inspire
and support others on their own
faith journeys, fostering mutual
understanding and respect.
Session III: Embracing Our Christian Vocation: Being Merchants of
Hope and Love
Introduction
As we go back to The
Parable of the Pearl of Great0
Value, we see that it portrays
a merchant who, upon finding
a pearl of extraordinary
worth, sells all he has to
acquire it. This parable
conveys the unparalleled
value of the Kingdom of
Heaven, emphasizing the
need for wholehearted
commitment and sacrifice in
pursuing spiritual treasures.
By recognizing the supreme
worth of the Kingdom of
Heaven, we are called to
reassess our priorities and
redirect our focus towards
eternal values rather than fleeting worldly pursuits. It challenges us to seek
first the spiritual riches of faith, love, and righteousness, knowing that they
surpass all material possessions.
Our Christian Vocation:
 Our Christian vocation encompasses our calling as disciples of Christ,
inviting us to embody His teachings and emulate His example in our
 lives. It involves cultivating a deep relationship with God, growing in
faith, and living in accordance with the principles of the Gospel.
 As high school students, our vocation extends to our academic
pursuits, relationships with others, and involvement in our
communities. It requires us to integrate our faith into every aspect of
our lives, striving to be salt and light in the world.
Sacrificial Love and Service:
 Sacrificial love lies at the heart of the Christian faith, exemplified by
Christ's ultimate sacrifice on the cross. Like the merchant who sells all
he has for the pearl, we are called to sacrificially love others, putting
their needs above our own desires.
 This sacrificial love manifests itself through acts of service,
compassion, and selflessness towards those in need. It may involve
sacrificing our time, resources, or comfort for the well-being of others,
reflecting the self-giving love of Christ.
Spreading Hope and Love:
 As merchants of hope and love, we have the privilege and
responsibility to spread God's love and light to those around us. In a
world marked by uncertainty and despair, we are called to be beacons
of hope, offering encouragement, comfort, and support to those who
are struggling.
 Through our words, actions, and attitudes, we can uplift and inspire
others, instilling hope and positivity in their lives. By extending acts of
kindness, compassion, and grace, we reflect the love of Christ and
contribute to building a more compassionate and caring community.
Living Out Our Faith:
 Living out our faith involves more than mere profession of belief; it
requires active participation and engagement in the world around us. It
entails embodying the values and teachings of Christ in our daily lives,
being authentic witnesses to His transformative power.
 This entails living with integrity, humility, and authenticity, striving to
be genuine reflections of Christ's love and grace. It involves seeking
opportunities to serve others, advocate for justice, and make a positive
impact in our spheres of influence.
Workshop (Optional)
Title: "Finding Your Pearl: Prioritizing What Matters Most"
Objective: To help participants identify their most valued priorities (their
"pearls") and develop strategies to focus on them, inspired by the
parable of the merchant seeking fine pearls from Matthew 13:45-
46.
Materials Needed:
 Workshop handouts with the parable and reflective questions
 Whiteboard or flip chart
 Markers
 Sticky notes
 Pens and notepads for participants

Workshop Outline:

1. Welcome and Introduction

o Greet participants and explain the purpose of the workshop.
o Re-introduce the Gospel Matthew 13:45-46 and the merchant
finding the pearl.

2. Personal Reflection
o Ask participants to reflect on their own lives and jot down what
they consider their "pearls"—the things they value most.
o Provide guiding questions in the handout to assist in this process.

3. Group Sharing
o Invite participants to share their "pearls" with the small group
assigned.
o Facilitate a discussion on the common themes and unique values
that emerge.

4. Prioritization Exercise
o Have participants use sticky notes to list their "pearls" on a
board.
o Guide them through a process of prioritizing these by what truly
matters most to them, considering the impact and practicability.

5. Action Planning
o Assist participants in creating an action plan to integrate their
top "pearls" into their daily lives.
o Encourage setting SMART goals and identifying potential
obstacles and solutions.
 6. Commitment and Closure
o Have each participant make a commitment to their top priority.
o Close the workshop with a brief recap and an invitation for
further reflection.

Facilitator Notes:
 Be prepared to provide examples from your own life as a way to
encourage openness among participants.
 Ensure that the environment is supportive and non-judgmental.

Guide Question during Reflection

1. What does the parable of the 8. In what ways can you actively
merchant seeking fine pearls seek your "pearl" in your
in Matthew 13:45-46 mean to professional life?
you personally? 9. What strategies can you
2. How do you interpret the employ to ensure you don't
concept of the "pearl of great lose sight of your "pearl"
value" in your own life? amidst life's challenges?
3. What are the "pearls" or 10. How can you create a
invaluable assets in your supportive environment or
personal life that you are community that values the
willing to invest in? pursuit of the "pearl"?
4. Can you identify a time when 11. What measures can you
you had to sacrifice something take to protect your "pearl"
good for something great, akin once you have identified it?
to the merchant selling 12. How can you apply the
everything for the pearl? lessons from the parable to
5. How do your current priorities make more meaningful
reflect the pursuit of decisions in your life?
something as precious as the 13. What steps can you take
pearl in the parable? to reassess and realign your
6. What distractions or less life's goals with your "pearl"?
valuable "goods" might you 14. How can you use your
need to let go of to attain your "pearl" to make a positive
"pearl"? impact on others around you?
7. How do you balance the 15. In what ways can you
pursuit of your "pearl" with celebrate and give thanks for
other responsibilities and the "pearls" you have already
commitments? discovered in your life?
  Keep the discussion focused on the positive aspects of prioritization
and personal growth.

Closing Activity: "Pearls of Wisdom"

Objective
This activity provides an opportunity for participants to internalize the
insights gained from the session, share their reflections with others, and
reinforce a sense of community and shared learning.
Materials:
1. Small cuts of paper
2. Manila Paper with a drawing of Treasure Chest
3. Paste
Instruction:
1. Invite participants to take a few moments of quiet reflection,
contemplating the insights gained from the session on faith.
2. Provide prompts for reflection, such as:
1. What resonated with you the most during our discussion on faith?
2. How do you envision incorporating the concept of faith as a
valuable pearl into your daily life?
3. Are there any insights or realizations you'd like to share with the
group?
3. Encourage participants to jot down their reflections in a journal or on a
piece of paper.
Symbolic Gesture: "Sharing Our Pearls"
1. After the reflection period, invite participants to form a circle.
 2. Explain that, like the merchant in the parable who discovered the pearl
of great price, each participant possesses their own unique "pearls of
wisdom" or insights gained from their faith journey.
3. Invite each participant to share one key takeaway or insight they've
gained during the session. As they share, they can hold a symbolic
"pearl" (which could be a small object like a bead or a printed image of
a pearl).
4. After sharing, participants can paste their "pearl" to the manila paper
with a treasure chest drawing, symbolizing the sharing of insights and
the interconnectedness of the faith community.
5. Once everyone has shared their "pearl," close with a brief prayer or
blessing, acknowledging the collective wisdom and unity of the group.

Closing Prayer:
Gracious and loving Creator, As we come to the end of our time
together, we lift our hearts in gratitude for the gift of learning and fellowship.
We thank you for the opportunity to gather as students, to explore new
ideas, and to grow in knowledge and understanding.
Blessed Teacher, guide us as we journey forth from this place of learning.
Grant us wisdom to discern truth from falsehood, courage to face challenges
with resilience, and compassion to walk in empathy with others.
May the lessons we have learned here echo in our hearts and minds, shaping
us into individuals of integrity and character. May our thirst for knowledge
never be quenched, and may we continue to seek wisdom with humility and
curiosity.
Divine Source of Light and Inspiration, we ask for your blessing upon each
student present here. May you protect them from harm, surround them with
your love, and guide them along paths of righteousness.
May they shine brightly as beacons of hope and agents of positive change in
their communities. May they use their talents and abilities to make the world
a better place, lifting up those who are downtrodden and spreading kindness
wherever they go.
As they go forth from this place, may they carry with them the lessons
learned, the friendships forged, and the dreams kindled. May they walk in
the light of your love, knowing that you are always with them, guiding and
sustaining them in all their endeavors.
We offer this prayer with hearts full of gratitude and hope, trusting in your
providence and grace.
Amen.