Our Family Tree of Faith

The young people will reflect on how faith is a source of unity.

The young people should be able to explain that faith is a gift from God that helps us to see and know God.

• Construction-paper tree
• Picture of Jesus
• Family photos (1 per young person)
• Large construction-paper leaves (1 per young person)
• Clear tape

• Fasten construction-paper tree to bulletin board or chalkboard.
• Call attention to the bare tree trunk, then follow these directions:

Tape a picture of Jesus to the trunk of the tree, explaining that he unites us with himself and with one another. Mention that we are all one family in faith.

• Distribute the leaves and have the young people tape their family photos to them.
• Tell the young people to write on the leaves one thing they could do to become more like Christ and to grow in holiness. Then have them attach their leaves to the branches of the tree.
• Invite volunteers to share their photos and the actions they chose.
• Display the family tree for a while to help the young people remember their responsibilities to their families and to one another.

Art/Space Smart, Word Smart

You might want to draw a tree on a large sheet of butcher paper. Make the tree large enough to allow each young person to attach at least one leaf.

Direct the young people in advance to bring in photos of their families.

Be aware of the different family situations of the young people.