Win, Lose, or Draw

To help the children review the meaning of the Sacraments of Initiation

The children will use this activity to identify and describe the essential elements of the Sacraments of Initiation, especially Baptism and Confirmation.

• Chalkboard or flip chart
• Markers
• Index cards (each with words or phrases associated with the Sacraments of Initiation written on them)
• Simple treats for prizes (optional)

• Prior to this activity, copy some or all of the following words or phrases on individual index cards: [bishop, baptismal candle, catechumen, chrism, community, cross, Easter Vigil, Eucharist, Gifts of the Holy Spirit, Godparent (or Sponsor), Holy Spirit, laying on of hands, Pentecost, Trinity, water, and white garment.]
• Divide the group into two or three teams, depending on the number of children. Choose one child to be the timekeeper.
• Explain that the children will be doing an activity that combines elements of charades and simple drawing in order to share what they know about the Sacraments of Initiation.
• Decide which team will start and ask for two volunteers from that team.
• Explain that the two volunteers will randomly choose a card on which is written a word or phrase connected with the Sacraments of Initiation. They will then have 60 seconds to help their teammates guess what is on their card by drawing pictures or symbols on the chalkboard or flip chart.
• While one child draws symbols that relate to the word or phrase, the other child can use any nonverbal gestures for charades to help their teammates guess the correct word.
• If the team is successful in guessing the word, they win one point. If not, the other team is allowed one guess.
• Whichever team successfully identifies the word can then win a second point if they can correctly explain the connection of the word to the Sacraments of Initiation.
• Repeat this pattern until all the words have been chosen.
• If desired, give the team that wins the most points a simple reward.

Art/Space Smart, People Smart

When deciding which words to use, be sure that the children are already familiar with the terms.

This activity can be used in many settings to review key words or concepts connected with the session.

If there are children in your group with special needs (physical, visual, hearing, language, or behavioral disabilities), adapt the activity accordingly.