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At Home Reflections

Activity Objective:
To understand the story of Jesus' night of prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane
Lesson Outcome:
The children will be able to understand and reflect upon Jesus' night of prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane.
Materials
  • Bibles
  • Poster board
  • Construction paper
  • Crayons, markers, pens, pencils
Directions:
  • Begin the activity by saying to the children:
    Holy Week is a time of prayerful reflection as we recall the death and resurrection of Jesus.
  • Invite volunteers to share what they know about Jesus in Gethsemane.
  • Remind the children that in this story we see that God wants us to stay close to him in prayer.
  • Tell the children that family prayer helps us to remember Jesus' struggle in the garden and the events of Holy Week.
  • Invite the children to share ways in which they might spend time reflecting upon Jesus' death and resurrection at home with their families.
  • Ask the children to plan a special prayer that recognizes the events of Holy Week as our most sacred time of the year.
  • Suggest that they refer to the Gospel of Mark for help. Also, provide the children with paper and coloring materials to decorate a prayer card.
  • When you feel the children are ready, invite them to share how they will remember the most sacred time of the year with their families.
  • Take a moment to share with the children how you reflect upon the events of Holy Week with your family.
  • Close by saying:
    Holy Week is our most sacred time of the year. I hope it is a time for you to grow closer to Jesus as you prepare to celebrate Easter with him.
Learning Styles:
Art/Space Smart,Self Smart,Word Smart
Approximate Time:
20 minutes
Hints:
Offer suggestions if the children have difficulty writing their prayers.
Sensitivities:
If a child is uncomfortable with the idea of sharing a prayer with their family, allow him or her to create a special moment of prayer to do on his or her own

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