This past Monday, we gathered with the children in church for a Lenten Prayer Service (about 30 minutes) with the pastor. I thought the service was very nicely prepared and executed. As we waited to begin, one of the 2nd grade catechists got up and asked all the 2nd grade children to stand and sing “This Little Light of Mine” which was an appropriate pre-processional and served to gather hearts, minds, and voices. I saw some of my 4th graders singing along! The music leader did a nice job of incorporating and leading simple Taizé (pronounced teh-ZAY) melodies which are terrific for children (as well as adults). The focus on Operation Rice Bowl gave the prayer a powerful social justice emphasis which is quite fitting for Lent. Throughout, the kids were well-behaved and prayerful (it helps that many parents attend…the increase in their attendance attributed to the DRE using SchoolReach to remind them and invite them). Kudos to the DRE Arlene and her assistant Lilian for putting together such a nice service. Here it is if you wish to use it/adapt it to your own setting. Lenten Prayer Service
Stations of the Cross
Another Living Stations of the Cross Script
I have another Living Stations of the Cross script to share with you. This one is from the parish where I serve as a catechist – Most Holy Redeemer, Evergreen Park, IL. The script comes to us from the DRE, Arlene, who does a wonderful job of pulling this together every Lent. living-stations-arlene-a Have a great weekend! Print Friendly
Lenten Activities
40 Ideas for 40 Days – Lenten Activities: Making a Paschal Candle
OK catechists, today we continue with another Lenten activity… Making a Paschal Candle Ask if any of the young people have experienced a power outage during a storm at night time Talk about how frightening it can be to be surrounded by darkness and how we rely on flashlights and candles to provide light for us at these moments. Explain that we use the image of “darkness” to talk about the bad things that are […]
Approaches/Techniques
Tonight, I’m the “Tech Guy!” – Lenten Reconciliation Prayer Service
Believe it or not, tonight I play the role of the “tech guy” for the Lenten Reconciliation prayer service taking place in church! I will be on hand for both the early and the late sessions, manning the laptop and LCD projector for the following video elements included in the prayer experience: showing images of people being served by Operation Rice Bowl as their stories are read aloud opening song (video): Hosea – Come Back […]
Hi Joe I was planning on gathering all the children in the church on sunday after mass instead of catechism classes we would reflect on the station together. As there is a poor attendance at the stations of the children. Some never even heard of stations of the cross. Thanks for the idea will use it. Thanks for the other wonderfull ideas. This evening at mass you came to mind and I offered up prayer for you as you are a true inspiration to all catechists in this special ministry. My prayer is that one day I will be blessed and be part of your workshops. One day I will get to America. Keep doing the will of the Lord and blessings will be bestowed upon many generations after you.
Alison, thanks so much for sharing. Teaching your kids about the Stations of the Cross during Lent is very appropriate and will help the kids to reflect on the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus. I hope it goes well for you. Thanks especially for the prayer and your kind words. I do indeed hope we get a chance to meet some day!