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The Be Yourself Journal can easily be used in a group setting. Some parishes are using it in small groups already!!

Other moms are considering using it for a birthday party/ sleepover theme.

Both are GREAT ideas and I encourage you to consider how you can share this journal in a fun way to a special young woman in your life!

The Be Yourself Journal was written to meet young girls where they are; and no matter where they are on their spiritual journey, girls, like all people, are not meant to be islands. Girls are social by nature. Knowing that, I wrote the book with many pages that could be shared with friends. There are pages that the user will want to do alone and keep personal. But there is a great balance in this book of personal and social, light and serious, prayer and inspiration.

While I am working with Gracewatch Media to create a leader’s guide for the journal, I wanted to give you a sneak peak on what to expect. Here are some ideas on how to use the journal in a group setting.

Theme 1: Creation- Meant for Fun

Materials:

Be Yourself: A Catholic Journal for Girls

Gel pens

Colored Pencils 

Highlighters

Procedure:

1. Give the books to the girls and encourage them to check it out! Tell them to fill out the page titled “Your Beauty Basics” (If the “Let your light shine coloring page: page 1, then your beauty basics is page 4) and reassure them that it’s okay to doodle and color
2. Once this is completed, allow them to share with one another. Then turn their attention back to page 2 which quotes the Catechism.  Ask for a volunteer to read each quote.  Then, draw the girls’ attention to the beginning of the last quote, “GOD CREATED EVERYTHING FOR YOU . . .).  That will be the focus of today’s session.
3. Turn the girls attention (and books) to the God’s Creation page.  Have someone read the top out loud.  Allow the girls time to read the aspects of Our Lord’s creation that are listed.  Encourage them to highlight, circle or draw hearts around all the ones they truly appreciate. Then ask them for suggestions on what else could be added to the list.  Finally, allow them time to choose and write their “top three”.
4. Next, have the girls fill out the next two pages.  Give plenty of time, but ask them for this part that they stay focused on the pages titled “God’s Creation & You” and “Would you Rather”.  Allow them to talk and share if they wish – but not required.  Let them know that they will be asked to share and discuss the Would you rather page, but not the personal favorites page.
5. Have everyone pick a random partner and share their “would you rather” answers. Direct them to draw a heart next to the responses that match.  Switch partners several times and repeat!

Wrap it up!

Ask the group if they ever thought about or realized that God created so many things for them to enjoy. Point out that our uniqueness can be seen in that we all don’t enjoy creation the same way.  Encourage the young women to take time each day to thank God for at least one aspect of His creation.

Have more time?

If at the end of any session, you find yourself with more time, allow the girls to color one of the 20 coloring pages!  Let them choose which one!


 

Theme 2: Bloom Where You are Planted

Materials:

The Be Yourself Journal

Glue sticks

Photographs of the girls with one or more people (tell them to bring at least 10 pictures!)

Holy Cards

Scrapbooking Supplies

Created to Create Starter Kit from DaySpring (optional, but these are perfect prompts for prayer journaling!)

Clear contact paper

Magazines

stickers

Procedure:

1.  Redirect girls to the quotes from the Catechism on page 2 of the journal:

GOD ESTABLISHED YOU IN HIS FRIENDSHIP.

based on Catechism of the Catholic Church #355

GOD CREATED YOU BOTH BODY AND SOUL.

based on Catechism of the Catholic Church #382

GOD CREATED EVERYTHING FOR YOU. BUT YOU IN TURN WERE CREATED TO SERVE AND LOVE GOD AND TO OFFER ALL CREATION BACK TO HIM.

based on Catechism of the Catholic Church #358

2. Tell the girls we’re going to look at YOU today.  Reassure each young lady that God created her on purpose and for a specific mission.

3. Direct them to the first Saint Spotlight.  Take a look at the “snapshot”.  Make sure they each know what a “pet peeve” is and give an example of one.  After they read the “snapshot” of St. Catherine of Siena, ask them if it were a snapshot of each of them, what would it say – ask for volunteers to give answers of nicknames, advice to others, pet peeves, etc.

4.  Read the letter from Saint Catherine.  First out loud, then have each girl read it silently.  Tell them to highlight or underline something they want to remember.  Once the letter was read twice, really talk about all the labels and pressures we put on ourselves and that our culture stresses.  Remind them that only one label is important . . . being the eternal daughter of God the Father.  Reassure the girls that yes, we should give the Lord our time and talents, but when those things become burdens or stressors, we need to trust God with them and only concern ourselves with our love for Him.

5. One way to serve and love God is to love and help others.  Mother Teresa had great advice:

Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time and always start with the person nearest you”

Saint Teresa of Calcutta

Take the girls to this page of the journal.  Have them take out their pictures they brought and glue pictures of them with one other person.  Remind them that they have done God’s will in their lives when they have loved others.  Allow girls to embellish the page with stickers, washi tape  and any other way their creativity prompts them.

6. Next, direct them towards the back cover.  The directions for the back cover are inside the book on one of the very last pages.  Give them time to pick out a holy card, a picture of themselves, inspirational words and pretty stickers.  Give them a piece of scrapbooking paper to use as a canvas.  Encourages them to color “Let your light shine” with gel pens.  Once they have completed the back cover, help them protect it with clear contact paper.

7.  If there is more time, allow them to explore the book on their own and pick something to read or questions to work on.  Advise them to write questions they have down on the page after the Saint Catherine of Siena letter.

These are just two samples of what to expect in a soon to be published “Leader’s Guide”.

***Contact Gracewatch Media for GROUP RATES!

Want to win a free Be Yourself Journal?

Enter here:

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The post “Be Yourself” Prayer Journal Parties for Girls: Themes, Prompts and Mini Lesson Plans appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

In the Part 1; 25 journal prompts were given to help you either jump start your prayer journaling or increase your time writing during the season of Lent.  I hope and pray you found the prompts inspiring and are excited to continue growing closer to Christ in this form of prayer!

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Here is a list of more journal prompts, as well as a printable for you to use throughout Lent!

1. 1.  Write a prayer in an acrostic style like this one: A Chocolate Prayer (Use any word you desire!  Need ideas?  Lent, Love, Fasting, Almsgiving, Faith . . .)
   2. Use Open Journey on Etsy to spark some creativity!

3. Cut out song lyrics that Praise the Lord.  Play the song using youtube while you glue the lyrics to a page.  Draw music notes around the page and write what you feel inspired to write around the lyrics or under them.  One of my favorite songs is by MercyMe . .                                                                4. Dedicate a page for holy cards by gluing an envelope (or two) to the page.  Glue the front of the envelope so that the side that faces you opens and you can keep holy cards in that envelope.  Katie at Look to Him be Radiant had this idea too.  Check out this page to see what it looks like and get a ton of more fun ideas!!! Look to Him and Be Radiant Smash Journal Ideas

5. Write out the Act of Contrition.  Really pray it with your whole heart.

6. Ask the Lord to fill you with the fruits of the Holy Spirit.  Color a Fruits of the Spirit page and glue it under your prayer.  You can find the one below on my Pinterest board: Prayer Journal Ideas Pinterest Board                        

7. Write a quote attributed to a Saint that really inspires you.  Decorate the page.

8. Dollar Store page!  Go to the dollar store and find some inspiration – a religious greeting card, stickers, a faith book . . . find something that you feel attracted to and decorate the page around that piece!

9.  Dedicate a page for the Serenity Prayer.

10. Write a prayer to Our Eternal Father asking Him to bless, heal and help people in your life who are struggling or who you feel are in great need of prayers.

11. Choose a Fatima Prayer.  Copy the prayer and find an Fatima image to color or holy image to paste on the page (or a picture of a Rosary).

12.  Cut out a prayer from a faith devotional or magazine.  Copy the prayer and decorate the page.                 

13.  Take a picture of your church, a statue, stained glass window, or religious art hung up in your parish.  Print out the picture and write what made you choose that image.  What about that image moves your heart towards God?

14.  Praise the Lord for all He has created and all that He has done out of love for you.  Do this in a letter, a poem with pictures or any way you feel compelled to acknowledge His Glory and Love for you and all of humanity.

15. Write out the Prayer of Saint Francis (aka the Universal Prayer for Peace). Pray for peace in our world, nation as well as your family, home and community.

Would you like a free printable?

Click here: Prayer Wine Chocolate Lenten Journal Prompts

Wondering when to journal?  Check out: When DO Real Women Find Time To Journal?

Need more inspiration?  Check out this find! Bread and Wine: Readings for Lent and Easter

I hope to give you encouragement throughout Lent!  Check out my Facebook page: Prayer Wine Chocolate and my Youtube channel Amy Brooks on Youtube for upcoming videos!!

Share some pictures of your journal entries on social media with the hashtag #prayerwinechocolate #PrayerJournal

May the Lord bless you this Lent and always!

Love, 

Amy

Want more?  Here is an eBook of 40 MORE JOURNAL PROMPTS!

The post 40 Prayer Journal Prompts for Lent (part 2) {Includes a Free Printable} appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

pay closer attention during prayer,

relieve stress,

express some creativity,

and

document my feelings and thoughts.

One of my goals this month is to really get back into keeping a prayer journal.  I long to enjoy this “me time” and prayer time.  Perhaps even with a glass of wine . . .

There are affiliate links within this article.  Thank you for helping me continue writing at prayerwinechocolate.com!

Here are 8 ways to turn a blank notebook into a prayer journal:

1.  Write Letters

   I often loose focus and start to daydream when I do, well, anything.  So in order to feel more focused in prayer, I started writing letters to Jesus.  I also have written letter to saints asking for their intercession. I tell the Lord what I am thinking about, what I am grateful for, what I desire and what I worry about.  I once wrote a letter to Jesus telling Him why I had been relentless in my prayers about meeting a man that would be my husband.  In that letter I was very specific about why I wanted to be a wife so badly.  These letters helped me pray, and also helped me really search my heart.

   

2. Copy Prayers

   Many times I have started a novena for a specific request, and half way through the nine days of praying my intention’s wording changed.  It often would change so much it became an entirely different prayer. This is a huge reason why I LOVE novenas.  I find, often, that what I want – is not really what God wants.  I feel like that becomes apparent when day 4’s intentions are much different than day 1’s.  So, now when I commit myself to saying a novena, I really have to ask myself – is this a strong desire, or just a wish?  Writing the prayer out takes time, so I must evaluate if that time and energy is really worth it to me.  Once I decide to pray the novena, I write out the whole prayer on Day 1 – and I write my specific intention.  For the next 8 days I pray that prayer through reading what I wrote.  This way, my intention stays the same in wording.  If I don’t make it through, chances are, what I was asking wasn’t truly in my heart. If you think an email reminder would help you in praying a novena, you can sign up for that here: Pray More Novenas!

3. Write an inspiring quote or lyrics from an uplifting song, then decorate the page

   Years ago when I started keeping a prayer journal, there was a song “I Turn to You” sung by Christina Aguilera.  The lyrics were in the Catholic Newspaper in our area, and an author called it “A Pop Song Psalm”.  I cut out the lyrics and glued it to a page.  Around it I wrote things like, “Be more prayerful”, “be more grateful”.  It gave me an excuse to color and draw!

4. Color and Paste

   I’m so happy adult coloring books are all the rage – but honestly, give me a kid coloring book and I’ll be just as happy!  Here are some links so that you don’t have to purchase any coloring books!  The following bloggers have free coloring pages waiting for you! Katie Bogner at Look to Him and Be Radiant has a ton of free coloring pages!  I love her work!  From Fulton Sheen quotes to The Works of Mercy you will find many to choose from! Colleen Mitchell at Blessed are the feet will give you four free coloring pages just for subscribing to her blog! Dianna Kennedy has a free Rosary Coloring Book she gives to all her subscribers.  She says it’s for kids, but I signed up to get that for me!  Perfect for a journal page in my opinion! You can purchase 20 coloring pages from me to download instantly!  To get yours go to Coloring Printables from Be Yourself

   

5. These colored penciled are the best!  Save the Crayola for the kids – these feel and look like butter! Prismacolor Colored Pencils
   
   

6. Cut out and paste a devotion, article or picture and decorate the page around it

   I once read a reflection piece on John 6:7.  The author who reflected on this miracle of the loaves and fishes, pointed out that grace is not bound by either logic or arithmetic – that Jesus’ presence turns scarcity into abundance.  I cut it out and wrote quotes from the reflection around it.  I drew pictures. I felt like it was a letter from Jesus to me telling me not to worry and have hope!

7. Make a collage!

   Use real photographs and fill the page of pictures and thank the Lord for all of these wonderful blessings. Use magazine pictures to show God all that you dream of and hope for as a prayer of petition!

8. Use stickers, stencils, markers, stamps and washi tape!

   When I was a young girl, I LOVED stickers! I collected them, kept a sticker book, traded them and my heart did a certain kind of leap when my mom bought me a pack for no special occasion.  Stickers bring me such fond memories and a childlike joy.  I also remember it being a special occasion when I could use markers.  Do I sound ancient? I don’t care, pass those scented markers and that stamp pad, I’ll make this page look pretty and praise God in some shape or form!

9. Use Holy Cards and Holy Images

   Years ago I glued on this holy card to the first page of my prayer journal.  I believe it set an incredible tone and was a much needed reminder that I needed each time I opened that book.  Now I have my eye on a beautiful illustration of Mary, Undoer of Knots.  I was first introduced to this title of Mary when Pope Francis came to Philadelphia last Fall.  I would really like to pray this novena and the picture that is in the April issue of Serenity, the Little Sisters of the Poor’s publication has “wowed” me. I am excited to cut it out and put it in my journal!  Amazon has some awesome holy card sets as well!

   Check out: Vintage Replica Holy Cards; 54 Holy Cards; and Favorite Bible Verses!

    

   What did I miss?  Which idea do you like the most?  Would you go to a girls’ day out where you would take time to journal with your girlfriends?   I’m working on that idea next!!!

   Do you prefer a more guided journal?  Check out my article: 10 Best Journals for Busy Women !!!

The post 8 Ways to Pray Using a Journal appeared first on Prayer Wine Chocolate.

How do you relieve stress, pray, and allow yourself time to be creative?  For me, I can do all of those things through writing in a journal. Recently, I went on a search for journals I would use and recommend.  After looking at MANY, I found some gems!  Here are the journals I think you would enjoy using and allow you to grow closer to the Lord, achieve goals you have only dreamed of and see the beauty that is already in your life!

Need a journal for a young woman?  Check out Be Yourself: A Journal for Catholic Girls

1. Gratitude: A Daily Journal

This journal is published by Jack Canfield, the creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books and D.D. Watkins.  I ordered this journal in January of 2015 and used it almost daily.  I love how it gives every date of the year and a just few lines to write.  I loved using it so much that I bought it again this year.  It really helps place my head and heart in a state of gratitude and thanks at the end of each and every day; and it only takes me five minutes to complete.

2. Start Where You Are: A Journal for Self-Exploration

On my quest to find the best journals for busy women, I headed to Barnes and Nobles’ bookstore.  I did not go to the “journal” section at first.  I went to the “self-improvement” section.  It was here that I found START WHERE YOU ARE.  I love this journal.  It has all different fun prompts that are not to deep, but really fun.  It has inspirational quotes in fun works of art.  When I came home and looked it up, I found out it is an Amazon Best Seller.  Author Meera Lee Patel is a self-taught artist that uses bright, happy colors while encouraging the person who is using the journal to bring out their inner creator.

3. The 52 Lists Project: A Year of Weekly Journaling Inspiration

I don’t know about you, but I LOVE writing lists.  I feel like it helps me have a plan and feel productive. This journal bases every entry on writing a list.  From listing your goals and dream to listing your favorite sweets and treats, this journal will have you looking at life  from all different perspectives.

4. Quieting Your Heart: 6-Month Prayer Journal

I love how simple and fun this journal is set up.  One space for a personal prayer, one space for prayer requests, a prompt that says, “Lord, teach me to . . .” and an inspirational quote.  These sections are asking me to get my colored pencils out and decorate the page and color the cute picture.  I love it.

5.  Hail Mary Catholic Journal

I was going to include a plain notebook in this list, and that same day I saw this show up on my Facebook newsfeed.  I love a blank canvas that allows me to paste inspiration from a devotional or even song lyrics.  I like the idea that I can use this space to write a letter to Jesus or the words of a novena prayer.  Having a journal with this stunning image on the cover gives it an added sense of prayer. I also recommend having a ton of fun making the inside of your blank journal pop with your creativity.  I found these cute writing prompts and thought they would be fun to paste in a journal entry.  Check them out here: 31 die cut faith prompts. Also, you can get really creative with this kit from Dayspring: Illustrated Faith Art Kit

6.  Travel Journal

I use this Ellie Claire travel journal for all my blog/writing ideas.  Life is a journey – so even though I haven’t been on a plane in ten years, this journal suits me.  I love the cover style.  It looks classic on the book shelf.  I love how the inside pages have an “old map” color and inspirational quotes (from Scripture and historical figures). Another bonus to this journal is the folder pocket in the back – which is barely noticeable, but a great place to put holy cards and other inspirational papers.

7. A Guided Devotional Journal

Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World is such an awesome guided journal.  Can’t we all relate to Mary and Martha!?? Everyday as a mother I struggle to decide if I am spending enough time just enjoying my son and am I spending enough time on my responsiblity as a homemaker? Like Mary, I long to sit at the Lord’s feet…but the daily demands of a busy world have me relating to.I found this journal on Amazon for $21.55 but Dayspring has it on sale for $17.99.  Here is my affiliate link for the better price! Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World Journal

8. Walk with the Saints Journal –

This journal has lined pages, saint quotes and illustrations. Most pages are blank, but I like that it also offers “how to” pages. How to pages include: St. Francis de Sales guide to Morning and Evening prayer; List of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit; and an Examination of Conscience.

9. A Coloring Book Journal 

I absolutely love this journal!  It not only includes coloring pages with inspirational quotes, but also bookmarks, greeting cards and gift tags! This journal is great alone and as a companion to a writing journal – I could see cutting out some of the bookmarks, etc and pasting them alongside my written prayers and reflections! There are other coloring book journals to peruse before you decide!  Here are some other lovely choices: Inspiring Words Coloring Book Journal and Whatever is Lovely

10. DaySpring Bible Journal

No matter how busy we are, we really should take time to pray and read the Bible.  Some people love Bible journaling – I have never done it, but I definitely think I would love to give it a try!  I chose this particular Bible journal because I love the cover and the extra-wide margins and there’s plenty of space for art journaling biblical truths! Also, for a limited time, DaySpring is offering $25 off any $75 purchase. Use code 25SAVE at checkout.

I had a blast writing this journal for young girls – if you are looking for a journal for a beautiful young lady, check out

Be Yourself can be purchased here: Be Yourself: A Journal for Catholic Girls and on Amazon!

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