LECTIONARY LESSONS - Squarespace · We receive God’s love and share that love with everyone. This...

LECTIONARY LESSONSCHILDREN (AGES 6–11)JANUARY–EASTER 2015 (PILOT)

2 —Children’s Lectionary Lesson Introduction—2

COmmuNITY Of ChRIST LECTIONARY LESSONS

Discipleship is grounded in spiritual formation and includes scripture study, worship, mission, peacemaking, and lifelong learning—for all ages.

Community of Christ is piloting this set of disciple formation lessons for children, youth, and adults January through Easter 2015. We invite you to use these lessons for your class, group, or congregation, and then provide us feedback.

Lectionary-based: The weekly lessons connect the Revised Common Lectionary for worship with Community of Christ identity, mission, message, and beliefs.

Quick, easy: The lessons are designed for approximately 45-minute class sessions with two to three pages of ideas, discussion starters, and activities. Additional preparation help may be found in sermon helps sections of Worship Resources Year B: 2014–15.

Your feedback is needed! Pilot lessons for 14 weeks have been created, and we’d like to know how they met the needs of your class or group. We’ll ask for feedback as part of the pilot and evaluate for further development.

Lessons are available for these age groups:

Children (multiage, 6–11): Help children engage in the Bible and introduce mission and beliefs with stories, crafts, and activities.

Youth (ages 12–18): Engage teens in scripture study and provocative questions about identity, mission, and beliefs.

Adult (ages 19 and older): Deepen faith and understanding with reflective questions, theological understanding, and discussion ideas.

To participate in the pilot, please contact Diane Maupin at [email protected] or (816) 833-1000 ext. 1259.

Note: Unless otherwise noted, all Bible scripture references are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright 1989, by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

God’s Generous Love—3

GOD’S GENEROuS LOVE January 4, 2015

focus: Grace and Generosity—God is the giver of all good gifts. We receive God’s grace and generosity as revealed at Christmas in the gift of God’s son. How do we respond in return?

focus Scripture: Jeremiah 31:7–14

Objectives The learners will…• expressthejoythattheyhaveexperiencedfromaloving,generousGod.• searchtheJeremiahscripturepassageforwordsofjoyfulness.• explorewhattheirresponsescanbeforsomeonewhoneedsjoyandencouragement.• createpostersforeachotherandagreetingcardsharingwordsofjoyfulencouragement.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)• Newsprintorposterpaper,washablemarkers• Blankgreetingcards(orcardstockpaper)andartsupplies• Optional:We Share poster set and We Share picture book (ISBN 9780830915224) available

from Herald House (recommended)

Welcome children with a gathering song, “Jesus, Tawa Pano (Jesus, We Are Here)” CCS 71. Sing once; then invitechildrento join in. Inserteachchild’sname intothe song (“Jesus, [child’s name] is here…”). Repeat for each child.

Joyful Giving

Ask:• Have you ever been so happy and excited that you

feltlikejumpingandsinginganddancing?• Tell about a time you felt like this (Christmas?).

Note: This may become a discussion of receiving Christmas gifts, but try to keep the conversation focused on the joyfulness of gifts and giving.

4 —Children’s Lectionary Lesson

God’s very nature is joyful and generous. God gaveJesus, the gift we celebrate at Christmas.

Display the We Share poster Grace and Generosity (or We Share book, pp. 14–15) and ask children to read in unison the Enduring Principle Grace and Generosity. Children mayenjoytryingitinEnglish,French,andSpanish.

We receive God’s love and share that love with everyone. This is who we are…this…and so much more.

Offer an opening prayer.

Generous Words PosterExplain that many years before Jesus was born, the prophet Jeremiah taught people about the loving God and assured them God was always with them. This is important, because through any struggle or challenge, we should remember God’s generous love and grace and always be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.

Print or photocopy the last page of this lesson (Jeremiah 31:7–14) on a large sheet of paper. Let each child choose a washable marker. Ask children to gather around the paper and circle all the words they find that express happiness,joy,orgenerosity.Readaloudthewordstheyidentify.

Tape one sheet of newsprint or poster paper to the wall for each child in class. Have each child stand in front of a sheet of newsprint with a marker and write his or her name on it. When you say “Go,” children will write a word on their papers that expresses God’s generous love. Children may use words from the Jeremiah scripture or add words of their own. The words can be any size and art style. Children then rotate to the other posters and add their words so, when they are finished, each child has a poster made by the whole class to take home. Children can continue to decorate and add words to their posters at home or after class.

What Can You Do?Jeremiah brought great comfort to people by using beautiful words to describe God’s love. Because God

generously loves us, we can generously love others. Ask for volunteers to act out the scenes below that express opportunities to share God’s love. After each scene, ask children what they could do to help.

Scene 1: As she sits in her favorite spot at church, an olderwomanisunhappybecauseherhusbandhasjustdied. What can you do?Scene 2: A new student at school is unsure where to sit at lunchtime. What can you do?

Children may think of other situations in which they can share generous love so others may glimpse God’s grace and generosity.

Loving WordsGiving cards with encouraging, joyful messages canshare God’s love and show people we care for them. Provide blank greeting cards (or make cards from cardstock) for children with crayons, markers, or colored pencils, and have them create a card of loving words to give someone who needs it this day.

Remind children this is Communion Sunday. This is a time when we can remember our covenant and recommit to be faithful disciples. Tell children: whether you are baptized and confirmed or not, say a special prayer of thankfulness. Promise God that you will be a disciple of Jesus Christ and share God’s grace and generosity with others.

Gather children into a circle, and ask them to help complete this prayer. “I love you, God. This week I will helpbringjoytoanotherby…”

Sing a goodbye song, “Go with Us, Lord” CCS 612. Sing through once as written, and then insert each child’s name (“Go with [child’s name], Lord…”).

God’s Generous Love—5© 2014 Community of Christ www.CofChrist.org

TheLordproclaims:SingjoyfullyforthepeopleofJacob;shout for the leading nation. Raise your voices with praise and call out: “The Lord has saved his people,

the remaining few in Israel!” I’m going to bring them back from the north; I will gather them from the ends of the earth. Among them will be the blind and the disabled, expectant mothers and those in labor; a great throng will return here. Withtearsofjoytheywillcome;whiletheypray,Iwillbringthem back. I will lead them by quiet streams and on smooth paths so they don’t stumble.… Listen to the Lord’s word, you nations, and announce it to the distant islands: The one who scattered Israel will gather them and keep them safe, as a shepherd his flock. The Lord will rescue the people of Jacob and deliver them from the power of those stronger thantheyare.TheywillcomeshoutingforjoyonthehillsofZion,jubilantovertheLord’sgifts:grain,wine,oil,flocks,andherds. Their lives will be like a lush garden; they will grieve no more.Thentheyoungwomenwilldanceforjoy;theyoungandoldmenwilljoinin.Iwillturntheirmourningintolaughterandtheirsadness into joy; Iwillcomfortthem.Iwill lavishthe priests with abundance and shower my people with my

gifts, declares the Lord. —Jeremiah 31:7–14 CEV


Of WATER AND SPIRIT January 11, 2015

focus: Covenant Relationship—Baptism of water and spirit is the beginning of our covenant with God. Covenant begins with God extending love to us, and our response to follow Jesus and live in covenant community.

focus Scripture: Mark 1:4–11

Objectives The learners will…• sharegoodexperiencesandfeelingstheyhavefeltwithothersincommunity.• actoutthestoryofJesus’baptism.• expresscovenantcommunitywithacraftactivity.• committothelifeofadisciple.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)• BluefabricorstreamersusedtomimicwaterofJesus’baptismduringskit• Foreachchild:a3in/8cmx9in/23cmcardandwashablecrayonsormarkers• Tapeorpaperclips• Foreachchild:coloringpageof“JesusIsBaptized”(atendoflesson)


Play the Follow Me game. Explain that after you say“Followme,”you’llsayandmodelanactionforchildren

to follow. Children should repeat your action, such as flip pages of an imaginary book, walk in place, or shake hands. Allow children to suggest actions which all will copy. Then suggest actions related to Jesus, such as:• Jesussaid,“Followmetohelpfeedothers.”(Make

motions of spoon-feeding someone from a bowl.)• Jesussaid,“Followmetobekindtoothers.”(Wave

and say “hi” to each one.)

Invite children to take turns as the leader sharing their ideas on how to follow Jesus.


Of Water and Spirit—7

Jesus Is BaptizedGather children to listen to the story of Jesus’ baptism from Mark 1:4–11. Invite the children to act out the story. They can play the roles of Jesus and John, the crowd, the dove, and the “voice of God.” Encourage them to use their senses to imagine what they might hear and see: sand, water, breeze, and people. Play sound effects of a lake or river. John could pull a blue fabric or streamers (representing water) over Jesus as he is baptized. After the story, ask children:• How do you see community described in this story?• What community will be with you (or was with you)

when you are (or were) baptized?

Pass out the coloring page “Jesus Is Baptized.” Note: Find the best time for this activity during your lesson or send the coloring page home with children.

Invited into CovenantInvite children to think about one of their best times, when they were with people they loved and people who loved them. Ask them to think about how they felt and tell about their experience.

Today we talk about covenant. When we experience good feelings with others, that is how it feels when we are in “covenant” or in a “covenant community” with others and God.

God shares complete, graceful, generous love with us. God invites us into covenant, a very special promise we share with others in community and with God who blesses that “covenant community.” When we respond to God’s invitation to become disciples of Jesus Christ, we feel the blessings of community and can share those blessings with others. Baptism, like Jesus showed us, is a symbol of our covenant with God.

Ask children to share their baptism and confirmation experiences, or what they’ve seen and experienced at another’s baptism. For those who aren’t baptized,offer an invitation to learn more about baptism and confirmation.

Our Covenant CommunityMake a model that expresses children’s relationships

withoneanotherandwithGod.Giveeachchilda3in/8cmx9in/23cmcardandcrayonsormarkers.

1. Foldthecardintothreeequalsections.Write“God”on one section of the card, “Jesus Christ” on the next, and “Holy Spirit” on the last.

2. Flip thecardoverandwriteyourname ineachofthe three blank sections.

3. Tape the outside edges of the paper together to form a triangle with God-Jesus Christ-Holy Spirit on the inside and your name on the outside.

When children have created their triangles, put everyone’s triangles together to create a “community.” Use tape or paper clips to hold all the triangles together. This represents our covenant community!

Singagoodbyesong,“IHaveDecidedtoFollowJesus”CCS 499.

Gather children in a circle, and ask them to help complete this prayer. “I love you, God. I promise to be a disciple of Jesus Christ by…” You may conclude the prayer with a blessing for the group.

HolySpirit

JesusChrist

RudyKim

Juan

God

8 —Children’s Lectionary Lesson © 2014 Community of Christ www.CofChrist.org

Jesus Is Baptized

Who is Welcome?—9

WhO IS WELCOmE? January 18, 2015

focus: Invite People to Christ (Mission Initiative), Worth of All Persons (Enduring Principle)

focus Scripture: John 1:43–51

ObjectivesThe learners will…• experiencehowitfeelstobepartofagroupandbeleftoutofagroup.• actoutthestoryofJesus,Philip,andNathanael(John1:43–51).• explorewhat“WorthofAllPersons”means.• identifysomeonetoinvitetobeincludedamongtheirfriends.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)• Largesheetsofnewsprint• Washablecrayonsormarkers• Self-adhesivenotes• Pensorpencils• We Share poster set and We Share picture book (ISBN 9780830915224) available from

Herald House (recommended)• “JesusFindsSomeFriends,”Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 50–51 (optional)


Play a game of musical chairs. Arrange chairs in a close circle facing outward—one fewer chairs than students. Children form a circle around the chairs. Play recorded music while students walk around the chairs with instructions to find a seat when the music stops. The child who cannot find a chair is eliminated. Continue the game, removing one chair each round until only one child remains.


Who Is Welcome?Gather children to hear the story of Jesus calling his disciples. Read John 1:43–51 or “Jesus Finds SomeFriends,” Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 50–51. If reading from the Bible, invite children to act out the parts of Jesus, Phillip, Nathanael as you read.

After the story, ask children:• Jesus came from Galilee, but Nathanael said, “No

good can come from Galilee.” Have you ever heard people say someone is “no good” because of where he or she was born?

• Are people any less important, or worthy, because they are different from you?

• How can people be different in other ways?• How does it feel to be left out of something because

you’re different? Do you want to tell about it?

Different and AlikeShow the We Share poster “Worth of All Persons” (or We Share book, pp. 20–21) and ask children to read the Enduring Principle Worth of All Persons. Children may enjoytryingtosayitinEnglish,French,andSpanish.

We value and love all people, just as Jesus does.

Ask children to look carefully at the poster.• How are the children different?• What do the children have in common—how are

they similar?• What is good about being different?• What is good about being similar to one another?

If we invite people to Christ, they will find Jesus Christ invites them into a new way of life with others, the world,andGod.Weshouldnot judgeothersbasedontheir differences, because all people have worth. Racial Justice Day is about seeing the good in all people and recognizing our differences—brought together in love and service—can create the best kind of community.

Our Community CircleMake a poster of the class like the poster “Worth of All Persons” or the picture in We Share, pp. 20–21. Tape a large sheet (or sheets) of newsprint to the floor. Invite children to sit around the outside, facing out, and then lie back on the newsprint with their head and shoulders on the paper. Trace around each child’s head and shoulders. When done, the children can color in their facial features, hair color, and clothing; then draw their arms overlapping each other. Children may add their names and write the class name (or congregation) inside the circle with the phrase, “We value and love all people,justasGoddoes.”

Whom Do We Invite into Our Circle?Ask children to think of people in their neighborhood or school who are different from them or seem left out. Give each child a few self-adhesive notes and a pencil. Ask children to write those persons’ names on sticky notes. Maybe they can think of persons who need friends. Ask them to post these at home where they will see the names each day. Encourage them to invitethosepersonstobefriendsortojointhematanevent or at church. (Children may attach notes to their coloring pages until they get home.)

Teach and sing the first verse of, “All Are Welcome” CCS 276.Childrenwillenjoylearningtheversewithactionsyou create or the class creates together. Remind children to post their sticky notes at home, invite someone, and share generously the love they have felt from God.

Gather children into a circle and ask them to help complete this prayer. “I love you, God. I promise to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and never treat someone badly because they are different. This week, I will invite…” You may conclude the prayer with a blessing for the group.

© 2014 Community of Christ www.CofChrist.org

Ask:• How did it feel to be left standing without a chair?• Whom do you know who may feel left out like this?• How do you think they feel? How would you feel?

Today we will talk about invitation and welcoming people into a community of love.


God Our Refuge—11

GOD OuR REfuGE January 25, 2015

focus: God is expressed in metaphors throughout the scriptures—as a timid lamb, a lion, and a fortress. No matter how we imagine God, God’s grace and generosity are always with us.

focus Scripture: Psalm 62:5–12

ObjectivesThe learners will…• experienceandimaginethewonderofthemysterythatisGod.• explorehowGod,JesusChrist,andHolySpirithasbeendescribedthroughmetaphor

in scripture.• identifyforthemselveshowtheyunderstandandrelatetoGod.• createanexpressionoftheTrinitythroughillustrationorsculpture.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)• Threesheetsofnewsprintorposterpaper• Washablemarkers,crayons,pencils• Artpaperorself-dryingclay• “MetaphorsofGod”(atendoflesson)—onecopyperchild• We Share poster set or We Share picture book (ISBN 9780830915224) available from

Herald House (recommended)

Invite children to stretch out on the floor or a carpeted area and close their eyes. Invite them to imagine and wonder with you what God is like.

Can you imagine God as the wind, or as breath? Wind that moves over mountains, across seas, and through

the grass. Breath that breathes in and out of all creatures, including us? Can you imagine God as light that shines into every space, or dark that gives you time to rest? Or is God like a shepherd, a father, or a mother who protects and cares for us with great love?

Ask:• How do you imagine God?

Invite children’s answers. Then ask them to open their eyes and sit up. Explain that we can best understand or


how Do You understand or Think about God?Gather children as you read Psalm 62:5–12.

Ask:• How does the writer of this psalm describe God?

(as a rock, fortress, strong and loving)

Tape three large posters or sheets of newsprint to the wall, labeling one “God,” another “Jesus Christ,” and another “Holy Spirit.” Read the scripture passages below, or have older students read them. Invite children to listen carefully and call out the metaphor they hear and which member of the Trinity it describes. Write the metaphor in large letters on the appropriate poster. Explain when we consider a metaphor descriptive of one member of the Trinity, we are still describing God as a holy community, God, Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit.• Genesis 1:1—God as creator• Isaiah 66:13—God as comforting mother• Deuteronomy 32:10–11—God as eagle• John 6:35—Jesus as the bread of life• John 10:11—Jesus as good shepherd• John 1:1, 14—Jesus as the Word• John 3:16—Jesus as the Son• John 16:13—Holy Spirit as the spirit of truth, a guide• John 14:25–26—Holy Spirit as teacher• Matthew 3:16—Holy Spirit as a dove

Note: You may need to explain when God is called “Father,” it does not mean God is a male. When a writer describes God as an eagle, it doesn’t mean God is an eagle. In Community of Christ’s baptism and Communion prayers, the words “Father” and “Son” are used, but the Bible provides many metaphors to explain the mystery of God.

Discuss with children:• What is your favorite metaphor for God?• Why is it your favorite?• What is another way you think of God?

Show children the We Share poster (or We Share book, pp. 4–5) stating the Community of Christ mission statement. Ask children to read it aloud. They may wish toreaditinEnglish,French,andSpanish.

In Community of Christ we feel joy, we give hope, we share love, we seek peace. We share this…and so much more.

Ask children:• How do the words joy, hope, love, or peace also

express an idea of God?• Which of those words best expresses your

understanding of God?

Give children paper and crayons or markers. Have children choose their favorite metaphors and create pictures to illustrate them. When all are finished, invite children to tell about their metaphors and why they are their favorites. (Alternative activity: children may use quick-drying clay to create a three-dimensional representation of their metaphor.)

Distribute the handouts “Metaphors of God.” Students can complete these during class or at home.

Teach and sing a goodbye song “God Within God Around” CCS 20 or the campfire song “God Is Love (Joy, Peace, Hope).” Encourage them to discuss their favorite metaphors of God with their families.

Gather children into a circle and ask them to help complete this prayer with their favorite image of God. “I love you, God. To me, you are like…” When everyone has shared, shout, “Amen!”

imagine God through our experiences—special to each of us. We may describe our experiences differently. Writers of the scriptures used words like wind, breath, light, shepherd, father, mother, and friend to describe God. These are metaphors. A metaphor is a word pictureusedtodescribesomething.Forinstance,ifyousay God is a lion, what characteristics of God are you identifying?

When we express God through metaphor, we understand God better. Sometimes Christians refer to God as the Trinity, which means God is an eternal community of Three Persons: God, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit.


God Our Refuge—13© 2014 Community of Christ www.CofChrist.org

metaphors of GodMetaphors are used to describe the ways we know God. Which metaphors describe how you know God? Draw lines connecting them. Metaphors can be used more than once.

Friend

Comforter

Creator

Son of God

Savior

Guide

Teacher

Love

Word

Breath

Refuge

Heavenly parent

Peace

Shepherd

Advocate

Helper

God with Us

GOD

JESUS CHRIST

HOLY SPIRIT


LOVE GOD February 1, 2015

focus:Discipleship—WearecalledasdisciplesnotjusttospeakandknowaboutGodbutto show who God is by sharing our gifts with others.

focus Scripture: 1 Corinthians 8:1–3

ObjectivesThe learners will…• discovertheyhavegiftstheycansharewithothers.• hearthatknowingaboutGod,JesusChrist,HolySpiritisimportant,butbeinganddoing,

following Jesus’ example, are more important.• experiencearoadtripsimulationthatsuggestsideasforsharingtheirgifts.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)• Paper(recycledpaperornewspaperissuitableforthislesson)• Wide-tipmarker• Oversizedshirtwithabeltortietosecureitatthebottom• Indexcards• Marblemagnets:cardstock;thinmarkers/pens(orasmallphotoofeachchild);scissors;

pencils; white glue; flat-backed, clear marbles (one for each child); and small, round magnets (one for each child)

Play a game similar to Red Rover. If the class is small, invite another class to play. Divide the class into two teams facing each other across a room or space. One team calls out, “Red Rover, Red Rover, send [name] right over.” That person runs to the other side and becomes

part of that team. Play for a short while, and then have children add a description to a name when they callanotherover.For instance, “RedRover,RedRover,send Suzi, a great artist, right over.” (You may need to model this first.) Challenge children to think of positive qualities (gifts and skills) class members have.

Now bring both teams together and become the caller, facing them on the other side of the room. Explain that you will call out a request, such as “Red Rover, Red Rover, send anyone who can [say a prayer] right over,”

Love God—15

and everyone who can do that should come stand beside you.

Ideas:• Sweep or vacuum the floor• Make a new friend• Talk to someone who is alone• Wash or dry dishes• Read a story to another person• Smile at others• Sing hymns with the congregation

As the game ends, gather the children and affirm their discipleship: “You are gifted! And you are called! Jesus Christ calls you to serve and to share your gifts.” Offer a prayer for the class.

Knowledge Should Not Puff upGather children and read 1 Corinthians 8:1–3. This letter was written by the apostle Paul to people in the church atCorinth.Corinthwasamajorcity2,000yearsagointhe Greek part of the Roman Empire. The members of the church had been arguing about how best to love God. Paul said what we know about God should not puff us up, but instead should help us love others better.

Demonstrate this idea by asking for a volunteer to stand before the class and put on an oversized shirt. Secure the bottom with a belt or tie so nothing can fall through.

Announce that this person is very knowledgeable about God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Ask children:• What do you know about God?• What do you know about Jesus?• What do you know about the Holy Spirit?

As the children call out their answers, write each idea—such as “God is love”—on paper with a wide-tip marker, loosely crumple it, and give it to the child to stuff inside the shirt. Have the child repeat each statement after inserting the crumpled paper, such as “I know…God is love!” Continue with questions about Jesus and the Holy Spirit, write children’s answers on paper, and have the volunteer stuff them into the shirt.

When the child’s shirt is so full of paper he or she can hardly move, ask the child to do simple tasks like take a book to someone or pick up something from the floor. It will soon become evident that the child is too puffed up with “knowledge” to do something for others!

Summarize:The apostle Paul warned the Corinthians not to become too puffed up with knowledge. If we really know about God, we know God is love. We show that love by loving and serving others. We can’t do that if we are too puffed up!

Road TripAskchildrentojoinyouonaroadtrip.

Have the children sit in two rows behind one another as if on a bus. Recruit a child to be the driver. You will serve as a tour guide to point out scenes along the way. Narrate the road trip taking the children past places where they can use their gifts. Customize ideas to your own congregation and neighborhood, such as:• We are driving our van to church and have room for

more.Whocouldjoinus?• We are driving into the parking lot. I see the

sidewalk is covered with twigs someone might trip over. What can we do?

• Visitors have come to our church building. How do we welcome them?

• Our adopted grandparents are ill and are not at church today. What can we do?

• The pastor is looking for someone willing to collect the Disciples’ Generous Response. How do we respond?

When you’ve completed your trip, summarize the experience:

On our road trip we have shared our gifts where they were needed. By loving and sharing, we show what we know about God.

marble magnets

Instructions for students:1. Place a flat-backed marble on a small piece of

cardstock and trace around it with a pencil.2. Draw a tiny picture of your face within the circle (or

use small photos of each child, if possible).3. Cut out the picture, cutting slightly on the inside of

the line.4. Spread white glue over the back of the marble using

your finger.5. Attach the marble to the front of the picture and

smooth with your finger. Let dry.6. Glue a small magnet to the back of the picture.


Distribute a small card (index card or smaller) and a pencil to each child. Have them write one or two ideas of things they can do to show how they love God. The magnet can hold the card to a refrigerator or other metal surface as a reminder to show God’s love to others.

Teach the hymn “Fanana” CCS 596 using call and response (sing a verse; have children repeat). Tell children this is a song in the Chichewa language spoken

in Malawi, Africa. Teach the first verse which translates “Be like Jesus.” Teach the other verses in English (printed at the bottom of the hymn page) acting out the motions as they are sung. These are truly ways we can be disciples—be like Jesus.

Gather children into a circle for a prayer of sharing God’s love through our gifts.


Come and Be Healed—17

COmE AND BE hEALED February 8, 2015

focus: Healing and Wholeness—Jesus blessed and brought wholeness to many, but he also took time to rest and pray. We can be a blessing to others, but we, too, need to take time to rest and pray.


ObjectivesThe learners will…• singaboutJesus’healingtouchandtheirowngiftednesstoshareasJesusshared.• hearstoriesofJesushealingothersandtakingtimetorestandpray.• discussthespiritualpracticeofprayerandhowtheymightofferhealingtouchtoothers.• makeaprayinghandscraftidentifyingthoseforwhomtheywillpray.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)• Prayinghandscraft:asheetofwhiteorlight-coloredconstructionpaperforeachchild,

scissors, crayons or markers, pencils• Flipchartandmarker• “IAmAmazing!”children’ssong(atendofthislesson)• Lectionary Story Bible, Year B by Ralph Milton, Wood Lake Publishing, ISBN

9781551455648, available from Herald House (optional)

Invite children to sing “I Am Amazing!” using call and response (sing a verse; have children repeat). Ask for a volunteer to pray.

Jesus healsWrite the word wholeness on a flip chart, and ask children these questions:• What does it mean to be “whole”? (complete, full,

nothing missing, not hurt or sick)


• What does wholeness mean? (completeness, fullness)

• What does it mean for you to be whole? (you have everything you need to be a well, happy person—love, people who care for you, adequate food and shelter)

• How could you help others be whole?

Share the story from Mark 1:29–34 of Jesus healing manyatSimon’shomeor“JesusHelpsEuniceFeelWell”from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 61–62.

Review the story with simple questions:• Who was with Jesus?• Whose house did he enter?• Whose mother-in-law did he heal?• What kind of sickness did she have?

Then ask deeper questions:• Do you know someone ill, disabled, or hurt?• What can you do for that person? What would make

him or her feel whole?• How can people feel whole even if they’re not

“cured”?

Jesus ministered to people with a loving touch. In today’s scripture story, Jesus “took her by the hand and lifted her up.” Many times we read of him touching the person he is healing.

• What are some ways you touch someone in a loving way? (Welcome children’s ideas such as holding someone’s hand, giving back rubs, or sharing high-fives.)

• What kind of touch would you share with those who are sick or hurting? (Welcome children’s ideas such as holding their hands, stroking their hair, or patting their hands.)

Jesus RestsAfter helping the sick, Jesus needed to be ready to serve more people the next day. He rose before the sun came up the next morning and found a quiet place. He prayed until Simon and his friends found him. Read Mark 1:35–39.

Prayer is a spiritual practice, a way we connect with God. Jesus understood how important it is to stay connected with God. Many stories in the scriptures tell about Jesus finding a quiet place to pray. Listening to our creator every day is important for our wholeness.

Ask children:• Where do you pray?• How do you pray? (Ideas might include eyes closed

and hands together, hands extended, or hands cupped.)

• When have you prayed for those who are hurting, sick, or need help?

Discuss children’s ideas; then provide materials to make praying hands.

Praying handsLead children through these instructions for creating their praying hands:1. Choose a partner.2. Trace each other’s hands (with fingers apart) on

construction paper.3. Using a pencil, write the names of persons you wish

to pray for on fingers and thumbs. Some fingers can remain blank to add more names when needed. Names can be erased and new names added when a prayer need is fulfilled.

4. Cut out hands with scissors and decorate. Make sure you decorate around the names.

Come and Be Healed—19

Jesus brought healing and wholeness by touching others.

Remember to bring healing and wholeness with a loving touch, as Jesus did. Display your praying hands at home to remind you to pray often and offer a blessing of touch so others will feel loved and cared for.

Teach the hymn “Jesus’ Hands Were Kind Hands” CCS 585 using the call and response method.

Gather children into a circle and invite them to offer prayers for one of the persons whose names they have written on their praying hands. “Dear God, please bless [name] with your loving spirit.”



LISTEN TO JESuS February 15, 2015

focus: We connect with God and share the light of Jesus Christ with others.


ObjectivesThe learners will…• hearthestoryofJesus’transfigurationanddiscoverwhatitmeanttothediscipleswho

experienced it.• identifyhowthespiritualpracticeofquiettimecanhelpusconnectwithGodbefore

sharing the light of Christ with others.• makealighttotakewiththemwhentheywithdrawinprayer.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Tablelampwithoutashade;threebulbs:incandescent,compactfluorescent(CFL),andLED(800lumensequals60watts)forBrighterLightsORflashlightforFlashlightTag(alternate gathering activity)

• Bulletinboard,posterpaper,orflipchart• Abattery-poweredtealightforeachchild,awrappercopiedfromthelastpageofthis

lesson, washable markers or crayons, tape• Lectionary Story Bible, Year B by Ralph Milton, Wood Lake Publishing, ISBN


ChooseBrighterLightsorFlashlightTagasagatheringactivity.

Brighter LightsDisplayatablelampwithouttheshadeforthisobjectlesson.

Discuss with children: Do you know there was a time when people only had the light of the sun or a fire to light their way? People awoke when the sun came up, and went to bed at sunset.

More than 4,000 years before Jesus was born, oil lamps were invented; 3,000 years before Jesus was born, candles were invented. About 130 years ago, the first electric light was invented, which was a thousand times brighter than a candle. (Turn on the lamp using an incandescent bulb.)

Listen to Jesus—21

A few years later, the first fluorescent bulb was invented, in 1976 the first compact fluorescent bulb, and in the 1990s the first LED light bulb. (Replace the incandescent bulb with a compact fluorescent bulb, and then an LED bulb.) Scientists continue to develop better light sources which are brighter and last longer. Incandescent bulbs last 1,200 hours, CFLs last 8,000hours, and LEDs last 50,000 hours.

OR

flashlight Tag (game)Light, like the light of Jesus, draws us out of dark places andinvitesustojoinothers.

Designate a volunteer to be the flashlight leader of the search team. As children scatter to hide, the flashlight leader tags them with the light, and they become part of the search team. The search team must hold hands and stay close to one another as they continue to tag with the flashlight. When everyone has been tagged, the game can be played again. The last person tagged will be the new search team leader with the flashlight.

This is how our discipleship can grow when we connect with God through Jesus who lights up our discipleship. When we listen and respond to Jesus, we grow “brighter” and our discipleship is more “enlightened”! Let’s read a story about the light that was Jesus Christ.

A mountaintop ExperienceGather children to listen to a story of mystery and wonder: the story of transfiguration. Tell the story “Jesus on the Mountaintop,” Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 74–75 or read Mark 9:2–9.

Draw a large mountain on a bulletin board, flip chart, or newsprint. Ask for volunteers to help you illustrate this story while you read it again. Assign a character to each volunteer: Jesus, James, John, Peter, Elijah, Moses, and the voice of God. Instruct children to listen carefully so they can draw these characters and their actions. Read the story again. If you read from the Lectionary Story Bible earlier, read from the Bible this time.

Explain that Jesus took his disciples to a high mountain to see who he really was. In their presence, he was transfigured, transformed—changed into radiant light. Jesus wanted to strengthen his disciples’ faith. He wanted them to have this special moment to remember during difficult times after he was gone. Later Peter wrote that we were“eyewitnessesofhismajesty”(2Peter1:16–18NRSV).

John wrote, “And we have seen his glory, the glory as of the father’s only son, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14 NRSV).

After rereading and illustrating the story, discuss:• What happened to Jesus?• What did the disciples do when Jesus was

“transfigured”? What would you do?• Why do you think Jesus led the disciples up the

mountain? (He wanted them to see who he truly was, to strengthen their faith in him.)

• Why did Moses and Elijah appear on the mountain? (These were great men of the Old Testament, but they lived under the old law. God told the disciples to listen to Jesus for he would have new words to say.)

• How is God described in this scripture? (Remember our metaphors of God?) What did God say?

Spiritual Discipline: Quiet Time AloneThe writers of the Gospels tell us several times that Jesus withdrew from the crowds to be with God. Read from the Bible Luke 5:16, Luke 6:12, and Mark 6:45–46. This practice of discipleship helps us feel God’s love for us. Sometimes we pray in a group with others. Think about where you pray with others, and where you pray alone.

• Where do we pray with others? (in church, at the dinner table, at camp)

• Where do we pray alone? (in bed at night, in special places)

• Do you ever go somewhere by yourself to be alone with God? Invite children to tell about it.

Sometimes we need to be alone with God so the Holy Spirit can give us new energy to follow Jesus and care for others. We are called to rest and feel God’s love, so we can continue to share our gifts and love with others.If possible, invite children to find a quiet place by themselves in the room, in the building, or in an outdoor space if you monitor all of them. Encourage them to be still and feel God’s presence as they draw apart. After a short time, gather them back. Ask any who wish to share their experiences.

Light of Jesus Tea LightJesus described himself as “the light” (John 8:12). Jesus Christ calls his disciples to be “the light” for others. Help children make a personal Jesus light.1. Photocopy the attached wrappers (at end of this

lesson). Cut apart, and give one to each child. 2. Have children color the wrapper with dark-colored


crayons or washable markers, leaving the shape of Jesus uncolored so light will shine through it.

3. Give each child a battery-operated tea light.4. Tape the wrapper around the tea light. Turn on to

see Jesus as the light!

Encourage children to find quiet time alone and pray as a spiritual practice in the next few days. They may use

their Jesus light as a reminder to be a light for others. Remind them that time with God will help them share the light of Jesus.

Close with prayer.


Listen to Jesus—23© 2014 Community of Christ www.CofChrist.org

Light of Jesus tea light wrapper


Evaluation of Lectionary Lessons Pilot

Weeks 1–7

Thank you for being part of the field testing for the lectionary lessons. We value your feedback and suggestions as we continue to create quality educational resources. You will receive an e-mail with a link to an online SurveyMonkey evaluation. (If you cannot access the online evaluation, please complete this form; the questions are the same. Instructions for submitting this form are found on the next page.)

Congregation size

___ Under 50 ___ 50–100 ___ Over 100

Class length

___ 20–30 minutes ___ 30–45 minutes ___ Over 45 minutes

Class size

___ 1–5 ___ 6–10 ___ Over 10

Curriculum tested

___ Children ___ Youth ___ Adult

Were these materials appropriate for the length of time of your classes? If not, please explain. Were these materials appropriate for the age level of your class? If not, please explain. Were these materials appropriate for the class size? If not, please explain. How much preparation time did you need for each lesson? What do you like most about the lessons?

Evaluation Form—25


Weeks 1–7


Congregation size

___ Under 50 ___ 50–100 ___ Over 100

Class length


Class size

___ 1–5 ___ 6–10 ___ Over 10

Curriculum tested



What was your favorite lesson/activity? Do you have any suggestions that might improve the lessons? Would you use lectionary lessons on an ongoing basis? Why or why not? What church school materials were you using prior to field testing the lectionary lessons? Please include title, author(s), and publisher.

Would your congregation be willing to pay for these materials if they were offered for a modest price? ___ Yes ___No

We appreciate your willingness to pilot these lessons and provide feedback. Your ideas and suggestions are important to us as we develop future curricular materials.

If you completed this evaluation (rather than SurveyMonkey), please return to Diane Maupin, 1001 W. Walnut St., Independence, MO 64050, or e-mail to [email protected].



GOD IS NEAR February 22, 2015

focus:Findyourjoyfulyes!Lent,whichmeans40,isatimedisciplesofJesusChristprepare for Easter with prayer and fasting for 40 days. We remember the 40 days Jesus spent praying and fasting in the wilderness as he began his earthly ministry. During Lent, we can respondwithajoyfulyestocelebratethegoodnewsofChrist!

focus Scripture: Mark 1:9–15, Isaiah 58:6–7

ObjectivesThe learners will…• listentothestoryofJesuspreparingforhisministry(Mark1:9–15).• reinforcethespiritualpracticeofbeingalonetoprayandlistenforGod.• hearthefastingwishofIsaiahtoendinjusticeandcareforthepoor,hungry,and

oppressed.• developacalendarofactionstorespondtoIsaiah’sfastingwish.• engagein40daysofjoyfulyesresponsesathome.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)• Pencils,markers,crayons,maskingorpainter’stape• Self-adhesivenotes• OneJoyfulYesLentencalendarforeachchild(Ifpossible,enlargeonlargersheetsof

paper, giving children more space to write. See preparation instructions below.)• Lectionary Story Bible, Year A by Ralph Milton, Wood Lake Publishing, ISBN


Lenten Wall Calendar preparation (refer to example at the end of lesson)• Onsevensheetsofcoloredpaper,makecalendarpagesfortheSundaysinLent.• On36sheetsofwhitepaper,writetheotherdatesofLent.• Attachthepagestothewall,oneweekatatime,throughoutLent(seeactivityonnext

page).

God Is Near—27

Greeting song “Jesu, Tawa Pano (Jesus, We Are Here)” CCS 71

Sing one time through; then insert each child’s name into the song (“Jesus, [child’s name] is here…”). Repeat for each child. Introduce teachers the same way.

Offer an opening prayer or invite a child to pray.

Jesus Begins his ministryAt Christmas, we celebrated the birth of Jesus, but Jesus didn’t stay a baby. He grew up and became a teacher, preacher, healer, friend, and peacemaker.

Jesus’ ministry began with his baptism; then he withdrew into the wilderness to think, pray, and listen for God. Invite children to share experiences from the past week when they spent quiet time alone as a spiritual practice.

Read the story of Jesus’ baptism and temptation from Mark 1:9–15. As an alternative, you may read “Jesus Gets Ready” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year A, pp. 78–79. Jesus was baptized and spent time in the wilderness thinking about who he was and what he was to do.

All about LentThis is the first Sunday of Lent. Lent is not that fuzzy stuff under your bed. It is a time to withdraw, pray, fast, and listen for God for 40 days as Jesus did. Lent is a time of spiritual preparation and renewal. Some Christians give up something during Lent to make space for God; this spiritual practice is called fasting. Persons can fast from food, watching TV, playing video games, or spending time with other activities.

But there is another kind of fast that the prophet Isaiah wrote about.

This is the kind of fast day I’m after: to break the chains of injustice…free the oppressed, cancel debts. What I’m interested in seeing you do is sharing your food with the hungry, inviting the homeless poor into your homes, putting clothes on the shivering ill-clad, being available to your own families.

—Isaiah 58:6–7 The Message, adapted

This is not saying no to something, but rather saying yes—a joyful yes. Jesuswantsus toexperience joy indiscipleship.

How can we joyfully celebrate Lent? Call out someideas and have children shout, “Yes!” when they hear something they can do, such as:• Cut out screen time (TV, computer, video games) to

spend time with family, friends, or someone who is lonely

• Talk to people in person—instead of texting or talking on phone

• Ask your parents to buy one less snack for you and donate the money they save to the Mission Initiative Abolish Poverty, End Suffering

• Meet a new neighbor• Write notes of kindness and leave them where a

teacher, friend, or family member will find them• Use your weekend or evening to help your family or

someone else

Ask for other ideas they can do for others.

Classroom Lenten CalendarBegin to create a wall-sized Lenten calendar. Explain Lent began this past week on Ash Wednesday, but our calendarwillbegintoday,February22,thefirstSundayof Lent.1. Tape date pages for February 22–28, prepared

before class, on a classroom wall to begin the Lenten calendar. You may create a path similar to the Joyful Yes calendar (at the end of the lesson) or invite children to create their own patterns, even a traditional calendar, if desired.

2. This week of Lent focuses on sharing food locally. Ask children for ideas to share food with those who don’t have enough. Have children write ideas on self-adhesive notes. Suggestions: donate non-perishable foods to a local food bank, organize a food drive at church, help serve at a soup kitchen, direct offerings to the Abolish Poverty, End Suffering Mission Initiative, or donate pet food to a local animal shelter.

3. Ask children to read their ideas aloud and attach to one of the days of the week. Encourage them to find ways to share during the week and come back next week with stories of sharing they can add to the class calendar.


Joyful Yes Lenten CalendarHand out student copies of the Joyful Yes Lenten calendar, along with pencils or thin markers. If there is time,havechildren listwaystheycanrespond joyfullyduring this first week of Lent. Tell children to record in the space for each day what they do to help Jesus. Invite

children to draw pictures or write key words describing what they do and bring those ideas to class next week to add to the class Lenten calendar.

Teach and invite children to sing a closing hymn: “Go with Us, Lord” CCS 612.


God’s Loving Promise—29

GOD’S LOVING PROmISE March 1, 2015

focus: God has made a covenant with creation, and we are to be God’s people. When we accept God’s love for us, we show that love to others.

focus Scripture: Genesis 17:1–7, 15–16; Genesis 22:17

ObjectivesThe learners will…• sharethemeaningoftheirnamesandsingahymnofGod’sloveforeachone.• explorethemeaningofGod’scovenantwithcreationandforustobeGod’speople.• hearthestoryofthecovenantbetweenGodandAbraham’sfamily(Genesis17)“more

numerous than the stars,” that extends for many generations and make a star globe as a reminder of God’s covenant.

• reinforcethefastingwishofIsaiahtofeedthehungry,andlearnaboutCommunityofChrist’sWorldHungerFund,whichrespondstotheMissionInitiativeAbolishPoverty,EndSuffering.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)• Starglobe:smallglassjarswithlids(babyfood,olive,orothersmalljars—oneforeach

child), distilled water, glycerin (available at drugstores), star confetti (preferred) or silver glitter, waterproof adhesive

• Paperforsigns• Onefruitorindividually-wrapped,healthysnackforeachchild(seeactivitytodetermine

what snack would be best in your setting).• Twobasketsforholdingsnacks• LentencalendarpagesforMarch1(Sunday)andweekdaysMarch2–7(seeFebruary22

lesson for details of this activity)• Pencils,markers,crayons,self-adhesivenotes,maskingorpainter’stape• Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, Wood Lake Publishing, ISBN


Before Class• Researchthemeaningofchildren’snames(etymology)usinganonlineorlibraryresource


Your NameInvite children to share stories of their names (how theywerechosenandtheirmeaning,iftheyknow).Forchildren who don’t know, share what you were able to find in your research. Explain that the Hebrew people gave names to their children that described something special about them. When children became adults, their names were sometimes changed to show a calling or a new purpose of their lives.

Teach the hymn “I Have Called You by Your Name” CCS 636, stanza 1, using call-and-response, if children do not know this hymn. Offer an opening prayer affirming that God knows and loves every one of us.

God’s Promise: A CovenantRead the story “A Baby Called Laughter” from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 80–81, or read the story from the Bible (Genesis 17:1–7, 15–16, 22:17). Part of this story is about people whose names were changed when they were called to do something important. Ask:• What new name did God give Abram? What did the

name Abraham mean? (father of many people)• What new name did God give Sarai? What did the

name Sarah mean? (princess, mother of many people)

God made a sacred promise to Sarah and Abraham. This promise was called a covenant, a sacred agreement between God and creation that we will be God’s people. BeingGod’speoplemeanswedon’t just talkaboutorknow God, but through our actions, we show God’s love to others.

• What was God’s covenant with Abraham and Sarah? (Their descendants would be “a multitude of nations” [Genesis 17:4] and would be “as numerous as the stars” [Genesis 22:17].)

God’s covenant with Abraham and Sarah was a sacred agreement for a long time, many centuries. God invites us into covenant, too, to be God’s people.

When we are in community with others who have made a covenant with God, the covenant community is one way God’s grace can bless us at important times in our lives, as God blessed Abraham and Sarah. The sacraments, like Communion, express God’s love for us and help us to remember and renew our covenant. As those of you who are baptized and confirmed take Communion, think about the promise you made to God at your baptism. Think about how long-lasting God’s covenant is, just like the covenant God made withAbraham and Sarah.

Star GlobesGod promised Abraham and Sarah that their descendants (children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and more) would be as many as the stars. Create a star globe to remind children of the enduring covenant we have with God and the many blessings we receive from God.

1. Giveeachchildajar.Childrenmaywritetheirnamesin permanent marker on top of the lid.

2. Filleachjarhalffullofdistilledwater.3. Add a dash of glycerin and swirl around to stir. Too

much glycerin will make the glitter stick to the bottomofthejar.Glycerinshouldmakeupabout20percent of the liquid after step 5.

4. Sprinkle in a small spoonful of star-shaped confetti or plastic glitter.

5. Fill the jar to the rim (toavoidairbubbles inyourglobe) with more distilled water. Use a spoon to mix the glycerin, water, and glitter.

6. Place waterproof adhesive around the inside edge ofthelid.Sealthelidtothejar.Allowthejarstodryuntil the end of class time.

—Adapted from Seasons Encore™ Multiage, Lent , Easter 2015, Wood

Lake Publishing Inc., 2014, ISBN: 9781770646735, 14.

All about LentThis is the second Sunday of Lent. Ask children if they remember what Lent is.

Lent, which means “forty,” is when disciples of Jesus Christ prepare for Easter with prayer and fasting (giving things up) for 40 days. This special time in the church calendar recalls the 40 days Jesus spent praying and fasting in the wilderness as he began his earthly ministry. During Lent, we can respond with a joyful yes to celebrate the good news of Christ!

We are following the fast that the prophet Isaiah wrote about. In this passage, he asked us to feed the hungry. “What I want you to do is share food with the hungry…” (Isaiah 58:6–7 TM, adapted).

God’s Loving Promise—31

This Sunday Community of Christ highlights the World Hunger Fund. We can show our commitment to ourcovenant with God by caring for others and helping feed people who are hungry. Show children the basket of wrapped healthy treats.

Say: There is enough food for everyone!

Ask children:• Do you know how many people are hungry or

starving throughout the world? Ask all the children to stand up. Group 80 percent of the children and give them a sign to hold that reads “Hungry.”

Most people in the world, 80 percent, do not have enough to eat to be healthy. This is because they only have 20 percent of the world’s food. Give this large group 20 percent of the snacks. Ask:

Point out the smaller group of children, and give them a sign to hold that reads “Not Hungry.” Only 20 percent of the world’s population is not hungry because they have enough or more than enough. They have 80 percent of the world’s food. Give this group 80 percent of the snacks. Ask:• Does this seem fair to you? How can we share this

small amount with all the hungry?• Do these few people need this much of the world’s

food? What do you think they should do? Prompt the smaller group to share so everyone has a healthytreattoenjoy.

Classroom Lenten Calendar1. Invite children to share their ideas and pictures of

how they responded to last week’s Lenten focus (sharing food locally).

2. Tape today’s page, March 1, to the calendar following February28.

3. Give children the dated papers for March 2–7 and ask them to add them to the wall calendar.

4. This week of Lent focuses on sharing food globally. Ask children for ideas how they could share food with those in the world who don’t have enough. Have children write their ideas on self-adhesive notes. Suggestions: Give offerings to the Mission Initiative Abolish Poverty, End Suffering which funds the WorldHungerFund,orsuggesttheofferingbeusedwhere needed most.

5. Ask children to read their ideas aloud and attach to one of the days of the week. Encourage them to find ways to share during the week and come back next week with stories of sharing to add to the class calendar.

Remember who you are and whose you are. God knows each one of us by name and invites us into covenant to be God’s people.

Sing again “I Have Called You by Your Name” CCS 636, stanza 1.

Give children their star globes. When they shake them and watch the swirling stars or glitter, tell them this is to remind them of God’s everlasting love and blessings.

Gather children in a circle for a closing prayer of thankfulness for all God’s blessings. Ask each child in turn to name a blessing—something for which they are thankful.



LOVE ThE LORD! March 8, 2015

focus: God’s vision for creation is shalom, a way of living as disciples of Jesus Christ who share peace and love.

focus Scripture: Psalm 19, Exodus 20 :1–17, Mark 12:29–31

ObjectivesThe learners will…• hearandexpressthewonderofGod’svisionforcreation—shalom.• exploreJesusChrist’snewcommandments—tocreateshalom.• hearhowwecantrustGodtohelpusbecomewhowearecalledtobe(Psalm19).• reinforcethefastingwishofIsaiahtoclothethepoor.Continuetheclasscalendarof

responses to the Lenten fast.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Flipchart,pencils,markers,crayons,self-adhesivenotes,maskingorpainter’stape• Handout“LoveGodandLoveOthers,”oneforeachchild(atendoflesson)• Skit:alargeboxlabeled“ClothesforthePoor,”threeshirts:adirty,tornshirt;aused,

but clean, shirt (large enough to fit over a child’s clothes); a new shirt with a price tag attached

• LentencalendarpagesforMarch8(Sunday)andweekdaysMarch9–14(seeFebruary22lesson for details of this activity)

• Gluten-freepretzelsforeachchild.

Welcome children by name as they arrive. Invite children to repeat and perform this active poem with you:

Looking all around, as far as I can see, God is there. (Shade eyes with hand and look around.)

Reaching way up high, as high as I can stretch, God is there. (Stand on tiptoe and reach up.)

Bending down low, as low as I can go, God is there. (Crouch down.)

Reach out in love, to love all that God created, (Spread arms wide.)

“And,” God says, “I will share my love with you.” Amen! (Shake hands with someone and smile.)

Love the Lord!—33

Today we celebrate the goodness of God’s creation! Today’s scripture is “The heavens tell the glory of God, and God’s great creation” (Psalm 19:1, adapted).

Covenant of ShalomGod’s vision for creation is shalom.

Write the word shalom on a flip chart and ask if anyone knows what it means. Shalom is a Hebrew word used as a greeting, but it also means fullness of peace. Shalom is more than peace. It is the vision God has for all creation to live together, the most perfect peace imaginable: peace between people, peace among all God’s creations, love for God, and love for one another.

To achieve shalom we need to be and live as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Many centuries ago, Moses received the Ten Commandments to guide the people of Israel. Each commandment starts with the phrase “You shall not.” But knowing what we should do gives us a clearer picture of what it means to be God’s people. Distribute the handout “Love God and Love Others” to children. Ask them to take turns reading the phrases aloud.

Hundreds of years after Moses lived, Jesus gave us new commandments—justtwo.

The most important commandment, answered Jesus, is this: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and your soul and your mind and your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.

—Mark 12:29–31, adapted If we follow the teachings of Jesus and make responsible choices, we will become the people God created us to be—loving, honest, happy, and reverent.

The most important idea to remember is to live it in our hearts every day with every part of God’s creation.

Allow children time to color the “Love God and Love Others” page. As they do, ask them to tell about times when they expressed the ideas shared in Jesus’ teachings.

All about LentThis is the third Sunday of Lent. Ask children if they remember what Lent is.

Lent, which means “forty,” is when disciples of Jesus Christ prepare for Easter with prayer and fasting (giving things up) for 40 days. This special time in the church’s calendar recalls the 40 days Jesus spent praying and fasting in the wilderness as he began his earthly ministry. During Lent, we can respond with a joyful yes to celebrate the good news of Christ!

We are following the fast that the prophet Isaiah expressed. He wrote, “What I’m interested in seeing you do is putting clothes on the poor” (Isaiah 58:7 TM, adapted).

Skit: One Way to Give (in a community of shalom)Ask for three volunteers to perform a skit. Take volunteers away from the class to rehearse.

1. Set out a collection box labeled “Clothes for the Poor.”

2. The first child walks up to the box, holds up an old, torn, dirty shirt, and throws it in the box. The child doesnotshowanyjoyatsharingthisdonation.

3. The second child walks to the box, takes off an outer shirt, gives it a hug or kiss (indicating it’s his or her favorite) and tosses it in the box happily.

4. The third child brings a new shirt with a price tag on it, removes the tag, and puts the shirt in the box.

Discussion questions:• What did you think about the first child’s gift? Was it

given in an attitude of shalom? How could you tell?• What about the second child’s gift? It is acceptable

to give used clothes, if they are clean and in good condition. If it is something we love, then we know another might love it, too. But we need to understand this is not generosity, but recycling.

• What about the third child’s gift? How does it feel when you get something new? Wouldn’t you love to give that feeling to someone else? This is the meaning of generosity as understood in Community of Christ.

• What other ideas do you have for helping people who are poor?

We learned last week that many of the world’s people are too poor to have the food they need to be healthy. They are also too poor to have the clothes they need. They may not have shoes or clothes at all.

Sometimes we don’t have money to give, but we often have a lot of “stuff.” Perhaps we need to buy less stuff, so we have more to give to those who have need. We’re


not giving in love unless our giving affects our choices and shows God’s love to another. When we give in love, we are sharing God’s vision for creation (shalom), and saying: “You are important. You are worthy of the best I can give.”

Classroom Lenten Calendar1. Invite children to share their ideas and pictures from

last week’s Lenten focus (sharing food globally) on the calendar.

2. Tape today’s page, March 8, to the calendar following March 7.


4. This week of Lent focuses on sharing clothes. Ask children for ideas how they could share clothing with those who don’t have what they need. Have children write ideas on self-adhesive notes.Suggestions: Give your offering to the World Hunger Fund, or the Mission Initiative AbolishPoverty, End Suffering. Donate clothes to a clothes drive or a thrift store. Buy an item from Outreach International (outreachshop.org) such as shoes for orphans, school uniforms, or a sewing machine.

5. Ask children to read their ideas aloud and attach to one of the days of the week. Encourage them to find ways to share this week and come back next week with stories of sharing to add to the class calendar.

The pretzel was first made many years ago as a knotted bread to be eaten during Lent because it contains no dairy products (commonly given up for Lent). Pretzels later symbolized the cross or praying with crossed arms. Give children gluten-free pretzels. Challenge children to sit like a pretzel with legs and arms crossed. In this position, invite children to say a prayer promising to be disciples of Jesus by loving God and others.

Gather children in a circle for a closing prayer of thankfulness for God’s vision of shalom for all creation.

Love the Lord!—35

Love God and Love Others

The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1–7)

2Pray

only to God.

1Worship the one

true God.

3Respect

God's name.

9

Tell the truth.

8Respect

other people's

property.

10Be happy

with what you

have.

5Honor your mom

and dad.

4Remember

the Sabbath. Keep it holy.

6

Respect life.

7Be

faithful to your spouse.


Love God and Love Others

Jesus’ Commandments (Mark 12:29–31)

I’m Sorry—37

I’m SORRY March 15, 2015

focus:Confession,saying“I’msorry,”isanimportantstepalongtheLentenjourney.Whenwe apologize, we are freed to receive God’s forgiveness, generously given to us.

focus Scriptures: Numbers 21:4–9, Psalm 107

ObjectivesThe learners will…• hearthestoryoftheIsraeliteswhofollowedMosesastheyjourneyedtothePromised

Land, but who were often hungry, thirsty, or disheartened along the way.• readapsalmthattellsofpeople’sstrugglesandGod’sinfiniteunconditionalgoodness

and blessing.• makeacraftofflowernotestogivetootherswhenapologizing.• reinforcetheLentenpracticeofconfession,tosayyou’resorry.Continuetheclass

calendar of responses to the Lenten fast.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)• Paper,pencils,markers,crayons,washablemarkers,self-adhesivenotes,maskingor

painter’s tape • Healthysnacks• LentencalendarpagesforMarch15(Sunday)andweekdaysMarch16–21(seeFebruary

22 lesson for details of this activity)• Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, Wood Lake Publishing, ISBN

9781551455648, available from Herald House (optional)• Flowernotesforeachchild(optionalactivity):flowerhandoutatendofthislesson,

buttons or other items to glue in the center of the flowers, envelopes (large enough to hold four flowers), glue


Prior to class, write each of these words on a separate sheet of paper in letters large enough to fill each page: GIVE THANKS TO GOD GOD’S LOVE LASTS FOREVER. Hide papers throughout the classroom.

Welcome children as they arrive and show them a delicious snack prepared just for them. Tell childrenthat sometime during class, everyone will enjoy thissnack together. The intent of this is to help children see how it feels to wait for something they really want.

Invite children to look for eight sheets of paper hidden throughout the room. After they have found them, ask children to arrange the words to make two sentences. The result should be: “Give thanks to God. God’s love lasts forever.” If children come up with another phrase that’s similar, it can be used as well for the next activity.

Have children help you tape the sentence onto the classroom wall.

Chant God’s LoveDo you know the story of Moses who went to Pharaoh in Egypt and said, “Let my people go”? The Israelites followed Moses into the desert in hopes of soon reaching the Promised Land.

Share the story of Moses and the Israelites by reading “FoodintheDesert”intheLectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 168–169, or Exodus 16:2–4, 9–15 in the Bible. Read today’s lectionary scripture passage:

They set out to the Red Sea, but the people became impatient on the way. The people spoke against God and against Moses, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water…”

—Numbers 21:4–5, adapted

The people wandered 40 years in the wilderness before they reached the Promised Land. They struggled at times without food or water, with sickness, with exhaustion, with their faith. Ask:• Have you ever asked “Are we there yet?” when

you’ve traveled? Tell about it.

• When is it difficult for you to wait? (Ideas may range from Christmas, a birthday, a vacation, or getting together with a favorite friend or family member.)

• What is something you complain or grumble about?

Explain that sometimes we don’t want to wait. We don’t want to share. We don’t want to listen to our parents, go to bed when we should, or eat new foods. If we continue to complain or are impatient we cause unhappiness between ourselves and others. We show that we don’t trust others: our parents, our friends, and maybe sometimes God. To make things better, we need to apologize. Telling others and God we are sorry when we have been impatient or not trusting is called confession. Confession is an important part of Lent. When we confess, or sincerely apologize, we also recognize God’s generous forgiveness; we can be forgiven by our parents and others, too.

During difficult times, people in the ancient world would sometimes sing songs like Psalm 107 (also a lectionary reading for today) to remind themselves that God’s love was always with them, even when they were unhappy or impatient.

Teach this chorus (use any tune or chant) using the wall banner prepared during the Gather time.

Give thanks to God. God’s love lasts forever!

Share some of the ideas children mentioned about waiting with impatience or complaining, and they will respondwiththechoruswhenyoupointtothem.Forinstance:

It is hard to wait for Christmas to come. Give thanks to God. God’s love lasts forever!

It is hard to wait until vacation begins!


(Create similar phrases from the children’s statements, always followed by an affirmation.)


All About LentThis is the fourth Sunday of Lent. Ask:• Who can tell us what Lent means?• How many days have we traveled through Lent?

(Have children look at the calendar and count the days.)

• Who can say what we mean by our joyful yes?(Sayingyes joyfully towhatwecando forChrist’smission and share God’s vision of shalom!)

I’m Sorry—39

Today’s focus for Lent is confession, saying “I’m sorry.” We need to confess, apologize—say we’re sorry—because that is how disciples of Jesus Christ behave. Confession is an important part of Lent. It helps us to be free from feeling guilty or bad about our actions. When we confess, we are open to receiving God’s generous forgiveness.

flower Notes (Optional)Many times, when people want to apologize, they offer a beautiful flower to another person. We’re going to make paper flowers of forgiveness today to give people when we are sorry for what we have done.

• Give each child a copy of the flower outlines.• Have children color and decorate each flower using

markers, crayons, or colored pencils.

• Have children cut out their flowers with scissors, turn over each flower, and color the other side.

• Turn the flowers right side up and fold the petals in. Children should write the letters S O R R Y on the folded-in petals, one letter per petal, so the folded flower reads “SORRY.”

• Children may choose a button, sequins, or another decoration to glue in the middle of the flower.

• Give children envelopes to hold their folded flowers. They may decorate the outside with their names if they wish. Encourage them to share these flowers with others if they need to apologize.


After the craft, discuss:• Is saying, “I’m sorry” enough? Convey that we have

to try our best not to offend or hurt again.

Classroom Lenten Calendar1. Invite children to share their ideas and pictures

from last week’s Lenten focus on the calendar (sharing clothes).

2. Tape today’s date page, March 15, to the calendar following March 14.


4. This week of Lent focuses on saying you’re sorry. Ask children for ideas of behaviors for which they should apologize. Have children write ideas on self-adhesive notes. Suggestions: not going to bed when asked, arguing with someone, being selfish, not wanting to feed or walk the dog, or others.

5. Ask children to read their ideas aloud and attach to one of the days of the week. Encourage them to find ways to share this week and come back next week with stories of sharing to add to the class calendar.

Share today’s healthy snack with the children. Praise them for waiting without begging or complaining.

Teachandsing“BlessThisFood”CCS 125. This upbeat hymn can serve as a prayer of thankfulness and blessing.

Gather children in a circle for a closing prayer of thankfulness for God’s blessings and forgiveness.

God Forgives Us—41

GOD fORGIVES uS March 22, 2015

focus: God’s covenant of love and promise and forgiveness should be written on our hearts.

focus Scripture: Jeremiah 31:31–34

ObjectivesThe learners will…• practiceJeremiah’sinstructionstowriteGod’swordsuponourheartsbymemorizinga

phrase from a scripture passage.• explorethechallengeofforgivenessthroughroleplayingandhearingscripturepassages

of forgiveness.• engageintheLentenpracticeofextendingforgivenesstoothers.• continuebuildingtheclasscalendarofresponsestotheLentenfast.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Paperforwritingscripturepassage• Pencils,markers,crayons,washablemarkers,self-adhesivenotes,maskingorpainter’s

tape• LentencalendarpagesforMarch22(Sunday)andweekdaysMarch23–28(seeFebruary

22 lesson for details of this activity)• Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, Wood Lake Publishing, ISBN

9781551455648, available from Herald House (optional)• T-shirtpainting(optional):newsprintorplasticcovering,fabricpaint,aluminumpiepans,

soap, paper towels, pieces of cardboard, extra T-shirts, blow dryer

Welcome children as they arrive. Ask children to practice their chant from the prior lesson:

Give thanks to God. God’s love lasts forever.

T-Shirt Painting (Optional): Cover tables or floor with newsprint or plastic covering. Pour bright colors of fabric paint into aluminum pie pans. Thin the paint with fabric-painting medium if you wish. Have water, soap, and paper towels available for washing hands. Purchase a few extra prewashed T-shirts for children who may not bring them. Provide cardboard to slide between the front and back of T-shirts so paint doesn’t soak through. A blow dryer may be used to dry T-shirts more quickly.


Give children a place to spread out their T-shirts and slip a piece of cardboard between the front and back of their shirts. Show children how to create a heart shape by making fists with both hands, dipping the sides of their fists into fabric paint, and stamping them side-by-side. Have children practice first on newsprint and then stamp their T-shirts. (You may also use heart-shaped sponges, cut in half.) A more dynamic design is created by using a different color for each heart half. Children may stamp hearts all over their shirts or one heart in the center front. Set T-shirts aside to dry. Blow-dry T-shirts which have thicker paint on them.

T-shirts should be completely dry before children take them home.

Written on Your heartsBegin a discussion about memorizing:• Have you ever had to memorize something at

school? What was it? Tell about it.• What do you know by heart? (Ideas may include the

alphabet, phone numbers, poems, songs, and math facts.)

During this Lenten season, we have learned about being in covenant with God and the wonderful blessing we have to be God’s people. We know there is a feeling inside us, an inner voice, that can guide us in our choices and our relations with others. Today, on the fifth Sunday of Lent, we’ll read a story about the prophet Jeremiah that tells us about having God’s covenant of love and peace written on our hearts.

Share the story of Jeremiah, “Written on Your Hearts,” in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, p. 89, or Jeremiah 31:31–34 in the Bible. Discuss:• Why did God ask Jeremiah to give the people a

message?• What was the message from God?• What is something you know deep down inside

about God?

Invite children to memorize this scripture passage from Jeremiah 31:33:

I will write my law on their hearts;I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

Teaching Tip: To help children memorize the scripture passage, write each word on a separate strip of paper. Lay all of them on a table or tape them across the wall

in order. Read the verse several times together, phrase by phrase. Then remove one word at a time as children continue to practice the phrase. Practice until the children can say the entire verse by heart (with all the words removed).

Note: Younger children may memorize a shorter adaptation such as “God’s love is in my heart.”

All about LentThis is the fifth Sunday of Lent. Ask:• Who can tell us what Lent means?• How many days have we traveled through Lent?

(Have children look at the calendar and count the days.)

• Whocanexplainwhatwemeanbyour joyfulyes?(SayingyesjoyfullytowhatwecandoforGod,andcelebrating the good news of Christ!)

Today’s focus for Lent is to forgive, to accept the apologies of others. Forgiveness is an important partof Lent. When we forgive, we let go of anger and hatred and are able to recognize God’s generous forgiveness. Canwesayajoyfulyestoforgivingothers?

Ask for volunteers to role-play situations when forgiveness was needed:• A brother or sister accidentally breaks your favorite

possession.• Your best friend doesn’t invite you to a birthday

party.• Your parent or teacher blames you for something

you didn’t do.

Ask children if they can think of other situations to act out and discuss.

To grow in covenant with God and in sacred community, we need to forgive others when they make mistakes or evenhurt uspurposely. Forgivingdoesnotmeanbadbehavior is okay. It means that we can still love the person. When we forgive someone, we make a choice that shows others the kind of person we want to be. It shows strength of character, not weakness. It shows that our love for God is written on our hearts!


from last week’s Lenten focus on the calendar (confession).


God Forgives Us—43


4. This week of Lent focuses on forgiving. Ask children for ideas of whom they should forgive, and what they should forgive. Have children write ideas on self-adhesive notes.


Ask children to repeat the scripture passage that was memorized in class:


Encourage children to share this message with their family and friends this week.

Close the class with a prayer for holding God’s words in their hearts and forgiving others.

Get Disciple formation News!Need monthly ideas and teaching tips?

www.CofChrist.org/subscribe(select Community of Christ News)



WALK WITh JESuS March 29, 2015

focus: Sacred Story—Jesus chose the way of suffering to show his love for God and for us. WecantravelwithhimduringHolyWeekaswejourneytowardthehopeandjoyfulness of Easter.

focus Scripture: Mark 14:1—15:47

ObjectivesThe learners will…• readthestoryoftheeventsofHolyWeek.Eventhoughit’sadifficultstorytohear,thejourneytothecrosshelpsusunderstandwhoJesusreallyis,andthatGodiswithusthroughourjourney,too.

• expressthejoyofJesus’lifethroughavarietyofactivities.• continuetheLentencalendar,reviewtheirjourney,andbeginthedaysofHolyWeek.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)• HolyWeekbooklet,oneforeachchild(atendoflesson).Printonbothsides(usingtwo

sheets of paper), tuck pages inside each other, and staple.• Pencils,markers,crayons,washablemarkers,maskingorpainter’stape• LentencalendarpagesforMarch29(Sunday)andweekdaysMarch30–April4(seeFebruary22lessonfordetailsofthisactivity)

• PalmSundayDonkey(optional):Donkeydrawingorphotograph,paper,markersorcrayons

• Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, Wood Lake Publishing, ISBN 9781551455648, available from Herald House (optional)

Welcome children as they arrive and teach a new hymn “He Came Singing Love” CCS 226.

Journey to the CrossReview the past weeks of Lent.

Walk with Jesus—45

• We’vebeenonquiteajourneythesepastfewweeks!Whatdoyourememberaboutourjourney?

• Tell about some of the things you have done to help give food or clothes to those who are poor, to say you’re sorry, and to forgive?

• What are some things you’ve learned about God and Jesus?

• Let’s recite the memory verse we learned last week (Jeremiah 31:33):


ExplainthatthejourneythroughLenthelpsprepareusforanotherjourney,thejourneyofJesustothecross.

Give each child a Holy Week booklet prepared before class, and provide crayons, colored pencils, or thin washable markers. Invite children to illustrate or create a symbol for each page as you read the stories of Holy Week to them.

Read the series of stories from the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, or read the stories from the book of Mark. To keep children listening and engaged in the stories, ask questions throughout the reading, or after each story.• “Jesus Gets Ready to Die” p. 93 (Mark 11:1–11)• “Jesus Goes to Jerusalem” p. 95 (Mark 11:1–11)• “A Kind Woman” p. 96 (Mark 14:3–8)• “The Last Supper” p. 97 (Mark 14:12–25)• “Jesus Is Arrested” p. 98 (Mark 14:32–51; 15:1–3, 16–37)• “Jesus Is Buried” p. 99 (Mark 15:40–47)

After reading and discussing the stories, read through the Holy Week booklet with the children discussing activities they can do this week to observe each day of Holy Week at home.


from last week’s Lenten focus on the calendar (forgiveness).


3. Give children the dated papers for March 30–April 4 and ask them to add them to the wall calendar.

4. This week of Lent focuses on “pray, care, and share.” Ask children to think of persons for whom they can pray, care, and share. Have children write ideas on self-adhesive notes.


Palm Sunday Donkey (optional)On this Palm Sunday, display a picture or a poster of a donkey. Give each child a piece of paper and crayons or markers. Invite children to add things to the picture to represent their journeywith Jesus thisweek, suchas water or food for the donkey, a blanket for his back, a palm leaf to cool the donkey, or other ideas. Ask children to explain their ideas as they pin or tape them to the picture of the donkey.

Remind children to engage in the activities included in their Holy Week booklets. These activities encourage them to pray, care, share— their Lenten focus this week. Sing again the hymn “He Came Singing Love” CCS 226.

Invite children to share a prayer in appreciation for Jesus who gave his life teaching us how to love, live, and be part of God’s kingdom. Close with an “Amen!” in unison.


Holy W

eek2015

SaturdayA

pril 4Jesus’ friends buried his body in a stone tom

b. They were sad. They m

issed their friend very m

uch.

Read Mark 15:46–47 in a com

fortable place.

Talk with your fam

ily and friends about how

much you m

ean to each other. M

ake plans for your Easter celebration.

Holy W

eek2015

SaturdayA

pril 4Jesus’ friends buried his body in a stone tom

b. They were sad. They m

issed their friend very m

uch.

Read Mark 15:46–47 in a com

fortable place.

Talk with your fam

ily and friends about how

much you m

ean to each other. M

ake plans for your Easter celebration.

Sund

ayM

arch

29

Pick

bra

nche

s, le

aves

, or fl

ower

s to

de

cora

te yo

ur h

ome

for P

alm

/Pas

sion

Su

nday

.

Read

Mar

k 11

:1–11

.

Say

a pr

ayer

of j

oyfu

lnes

s fo

r Jes

us’ li

fe.

Frid

ayA

pril

3Je

sus

was

cru

cifie

d, d

ied,

and

was

bu

ried

Read

Mar

k 15

:12–1

4.

Atten

d a

Goo

d Fr

iday

ser

vice

if yo

u ca

n an

d re

mem

ber t

hat i

t’s to

ugh

to s

tay

stro

ng w

hen

thin

gs g

o ba

d. B

ut G

od

and

our c

oven

ant c

omm

unity

are

ther

e fo

r us.

Monday

March 30

Jesus cleared the temple.

Read Mark 11:15–18.

Help your fam

ily clean house. Clean

your room. G

et ready for Jesus’ coming!

ThursdayA

pril 2Peter w

as afraid to say he was Jesus’

friend.

Read Mark 14:72.

Talk with som

eone about how to tell

the story of Jesus to others. Today is M

aundy Thursday. Maundy com

es from

a word that m

eant to give donations to those w

ho are poor, showing Jesus’

comm

andment to love G

od and love others.

Tue

sday

Mar

ch 3

1Je

sus

ate

a la

st m

eal w

ith h

is fr

iend

s.

Read

Mar

k 14

:16–1

7.

Shar

e a

spec

ial m

eal w

ith yo

ur fa

mily

or

frie

nds.

Wed

nesd

ayA

pril

1Je

sus

pray

ed v

ery

hard

by

him

self

for h

is

diffi

cult

jour

ney

ahea

d.

Read

Mar

k 14

:32.

Cre

ate

a on

e-se

nten

ce p

raye

r you

can

sa

y an

ytim

e.


JESuS IS ALIVE! April 5, 2015

focus: Peace of Jesus Christ—The events of Holy Week lead us to Christ who died on a cross, but Easter is the story of surprise and excitement. Jesus is not in the tomb; he is still alive! Where will we find Jesus next?


ObjectivesThe learners will…• hearthestoryofthewomenwhowenttothetombbutdidnotfindJesusthere.• expressthroughartwhereJesusmightappearintheirlives.• throughavarietyofactivities,experiencethejoythatJesusChristisalive.• reviewtheLentenpracticesandcontinuetheirexciting,surprisingjourneysofbeing

disciples of Christ.

Supplies• Bible(NRSV)• Community of Christ Sings (CCS)• Peace through All People video recording, available on the church website or as a DVD

recording. Go to www.CofChrist.org/resources#/. Search Peace through All People.• Crayons,washablemarkers,drawingpaper• LentenWallpagefortoday,April5(EasterSunday),tape• Hopscotch(optional):sidewalkchalk,painter’stape,ormaskingtape;colorfulrocksorsmallplasticobjectstouseasmarkers

• JoyfulSoundmakersandshakers(optional):cardboardtubes(frompapertowelsortoilet paper), washable markers, crayons, tape, paper (construction, tissue, or wrapping), scissors, small pebbles of varying sizes

• Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, by Ralph Milton, Wood Lake Publishing, ISBN 9781551455648, available from Herald House (optional)

Jesus Is Alive!—51

Welcome children as they arrive and teach the hymn “Peace Salaam Shalom” CCS 310. If possible, play the video, Peace through All People, and invite children to sing along.

Ask children if they remember from previous lessons what shalom means and say that salaam is the same word in the Arabic language.

The Surprise of EasterRead the story “Jesus Is Alive Again!” in the Lectionary Story Bible, Year B, pp. 100–101, or from Mark 16:1–8 in the Bible.

Discuss the surprise of the women finding that Jesus was not dead but alive. They thought Jesus was in the tomb. Where would they find Jesus now? What do you think happened next?

The disciples found Jesus in many places. He would come to them to give direction, to remind them of his love and his mission, and to comfort them.

Where would you find Jesus? Invite children to draw pictures of where they would be surprised to find Jesus. Wouldtheyfindhimontheschoolplayground,enjoyingsports with the kids? Would they find him in their quiet places, a tree house or grove, where they go to think andpray?Wouldhehelpthemfixameal,orjointhemwhen friends came over? Provide crayons or markers and paper for children to draw a picture of Jesus in their own lives. Invite children to share and perhaps add their drawings to the Lenten calendar (or take home).

Classroom Lenten Calendar Complete the class Lenten calendar:1. Invite children to place their ideas and pictures

from last week’s Lenten focus (pray, care, share) on the calendar.

2. Tape today’s date page, April 5, to the wall calendar.3. Ask children what they enjoyed most about the

journey through Lent. Did they enjoy sharingclothes, sharing food, forgiving, or apologizing? What was their favorite experience of Lent?

4. TheLentenjourneyismeanttochangeus—tohelpus be more thoughtful, aware, caring, and sharing. Encourage children to continue to find ways to share and care for others, as this is the mission of Christ, the mission of Christ’s disciples.

Cross hopscotch (optional)Play a game of hopscotch using the pattern of the cross. The cross is a symbol of the love Jesus has for us. He was willing to die for us, but he returned to live with us and guide us each day.

Draw a cross pattern on the ground, using sidewalk chalk or painter’s tape. Ensure that the cross is large enoughforchildrentojumpin.Leteachchildselectapebble to use as a marker.

Play a traditional game of hopscotch, only each time children throw their markers, they should name someone Jesus loves.

Joyful music makers and Shakers (optional)Provide a variety of cardboard tubes, small pebbles, paper (construction, tissue, or wrapping), tape, and colorful markers for children to make musical instruments. Guide children using these instructions:

10

7

64 5

98

3

2

1


1. Wrap a tube in construction, tissue, or wrapping paper. Tape the paper to the tube. The paper should extend beyond the tube at least two or three inches on each end.

2. Cut 1 in/2.5 cm slits into the paper on each endcreating fringe.

3. If plain paper was used to wrap the tube, decorate theouterwrapwithdesignsand/orwords.

4. Close one end of the tube by pushing a wadded-up piece of paper into it. This should fit tightly.

5. Fill the tube with small pebbles, and then pushanother piece of paper tightly into the open end to keep the pebbles inside. Different sizes of pebbles and different amounts will create different sounds.

6. By shaking or flipping the tubes back and forth, children can create unique sounds and rhythms.

Sing “Peace Salaam Shalom” CCS 310 again, this time adding the music and rhythm of the makers and shakers.

Prepare to perform this during the congregation’s worship, if possible.

Offer a blessing over the children, thanking God for their beautiful lives and for their opportunities to share the peace of Jesus Christ and God’s generous covenant with others. Close with an “Amen!” in unison.


Thank you for using these pilot lectionary lessons. We look forward to hearing your

feedback. Use the evaluation forms, or if you signed up as a pilot congregation watch your

e-mail for a link to the online survey.

Evaluation Form—53


Weeks 8–14


Congregation size

___ Under 50 ___ 50–100 ___ Over 100

Class length


Class size

___ 1–5 ___ 6–10 ___ Over 10

Curriculum tested



What was your favorite lesson/activity? Do you have any suggestions that might improve the lessons? Would you use lectionary lessons on an ongoing basis? Why or why not? What church school materials were you using prior to field testing the lectionary lessons? Please include title, author(s), and publisher.

Would your congregation be willing to pay for these materials if they were offered for a modest price? ___ Yes ___No

We appreciate your willingness to pilot these lessons and provide feedback. Your ideas and suggestions are important to us as we develop future curricular materials.

If you completed this evaluation (rather than SurveyMonkey), please return to Diane Maupin, 1001 W. Walnut St., Independence, MO 64050, or e-mail to [email protected].


LECTIONARY LESSONS - Squarespace · We receive God’s love and share that love with everyone. This...

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