Christian Mosaics

• Pieces of colored paper
• White construction paper (1 sheet per young person)
• Glue
• Examples of mosaics

• Explain to the young people that a mosaic is an art form that developed during the fourth century and was used to cover the inner walls of basilicas.
• Show pictures of mosaics and lead the young people in a discussion of the symbols used and what those symbols mean.
• Direct the young people to create their own mosaics by following these directions:

Choose a design used in the early Church, such as a fish, a cross, the book of life, or the shepherd. Sketch the design lightly on a sheet of white construction paper.

Tear colored paper into small pieces and glue them to the sketch, filling every space inside the outline.

• Invite volunteers to share their art work. Display the mosaics in a visible place.