top of page

High School Lesson Plan

​

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

  • Analyze significant events in the life of Father Edward J. Flanagan within their historical and social context.

  • Explain how Father Flanagan’s ministry reflects Catholic social teaching, especially the dignity of the human person, solidarity, and care for the poor and vulnerable.

  • Evaluate the moral and ethical challenges Father Flanagan faced and how his faith shaped his responses.

  • Make connections between the film, Scripture, and contemporary examples of Christian service and leadership.

  • Demonstrate comprehension and critical thinking through discussion, reflection, and an assessment quiz.

Documentary: Heart of a Servant - The Father Flanagan Story  |  Grade Level: 9-12th Grade  |  Length: 3 class periods

Materials Needed

  • The following links to the documentary, study guide, slides, and assessment

  • Printed copy of the Study Guide for students to complete as they watch the documentary

  • ANSWER KEYS: Study Guide, Assessment

film-button.png
eUgAdlp3W3.png
SmbUvvuxd0.png
Wgbg5WXuPB.png

Documentary

Study Guide

Review Slides

Assessment

Day 1: Context, Introduction, and Viewing (Part 1)

Opening (10 minutes)

  • Begin with a guided discussion:

    • What does it mean to live a life of Christian service in a complex society?

    • Where do we see injustice or marginalization today, and how might faith call us to respond?

  • Provide a brief background on Father Edward J. Flanagan and the founding of Boys Town:

    • He was a Catholic priest that realized there was a problem with homeless, troubled youth​

    • Devoted his life to creating a place for these boys to grow into men that could contribute to society

  • Explain expectations for viewing the film and completing the study guide, emphasizing thoughtful responses.

Activity: Film Viewing (30-40 minutes)

  • Distribute the film study guide.

  • Begin watching Heart of a Servant: The Father Flanagan Story.

  • Pause periodically to:

    • Clarify historical, theological, or ethical points

    • Allow students time to complete study guide questions

    • Facilitate brief discussions

Closing (5 minutes)

  • Exit prompt (written or verbal):

    • What aspects of Father Flanagan’s vision stand out as countercultural for his time?

​

​

Day 2: Viewing & Analytical Discussion (Part 2)

Opening (5 minutes)

  • Review key themes and events from the first portion of the film.

  • Invite students to share insights or questions from their study guides.

Activity: Film Viewing (30–35 minutes)

  • Continue and complete the film.

  • Pause at key moments to:

    • Examine moral dilemmas and leadership decisions

    • Discuss institutional resistance and social barriers

    • Connect events to Catholic social teaching and Scripture

Guided Discussion (10 minutes)

  • Discussion questions may include:

    • What risks did Father Flanagan take in defending the dignity of children?

    • How did his approach challenge prevailing social attitudes?

    • In what ways does Father Flanagan model prophetic leadership?

Closing (5 minutes)

  • Reflection prompt:

    • How does Father Flanagan’s example challenge modern Christians?

​

Day 3: Review, Discussion Activities & Assessment

Opening (5 minutes)

  • Review major themes of the film:

    • Heroic virtue

    • Moral courage

    • Responsibility to the marginalized

Activity: Slide Presentation & Discussion (20–25 minutes)

  • Use the slide presentation to summarize:

    • Key moments from Father Flanagan’s life

    • Central theological and moral themes

  • Work through the discussion activities included in the slides, encouraging students to:

    • Cite specific examples from the film

    • Connect themes to Church teaching and real-world issues

Assessment Activity (15–20 minutes)

  • Students complete the assessment quiz individually.

  • Optionally include these short-answer questions.

Closing Reflection (5 minutes)

  • Conclude with a reflective prayer or written response:​

    • How can you personally respond to God’s call to serve others in your school, parish, or community?

bottom of page