Laying on of Hands

To illustrate the Rite of Holy Orders

The children should be able to describe the Rite of Holy Orders.

• Drawing paper
• Markers, pens, and colored pencils

• Recall with the children the process of receiving the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Highlight the laying on of hands.
• Distribute the materials.
• Instruct the children to trace their hands on the paper so that their hands are side by side, thumb touching thumb.
• Explain that within the outline of their hands, the children are to write the words "Almighty Father, grant to this servant of yours the dignity of the priesthood." Tell the children that these words are prayed by the bishop during the Rite of Ordination. Encourage the children to draw symbols and pictures representing the actions that occur in the Rite of Holy Orders.
• Encourage the children to include symbols for the Holy Spirit such as the chrism oil.
• Conclude by inviting the children to show their work.

Art/Space Smart

If the children are uncomfortable drawing, encourage them to fill the hands with words describing the rite.

Consider sending these drawings to a priest (or priests) in the parish.

Pair children who may need help tracing their own hands. Instruct the children to trace each others' hands.