This week the RE kids learned about the teachings and temptations of Jesus and more about spring through their five senses and the celebration of May Day.
In the 3rd-6th grade class, Larry told the story of the Good Samaritan. Then they acted it out. After that they sat down and tried to update the story: who are the respected folks (analogs of Priest and Levite in the story). They came up with “Mayor” and “Business owner.” Now, who would be the Samaritan, the outcast, and the not-respected class? Answer? “Kids!” Then they re-did the play, taking the beat-up kid to the ER, where Larry told them about health insurance. The parting lesson: when someone needs help that you can give, don’t wait for the “appropriate person.” If you can help, do it. Next class, they’ll discuss situations when they should wait for appropriate help. Although our kids are really mature for their age, they do need help themselves sometimes to handle trickier situations!
In the K-2nd grade class, they discussed the temptation of Jesus and what might tempt them to do something they know is wrong. Everyone but Nick had a hard time coming up with what would tempt them. Nick would evidently watch a movie he was told he shouldn’t watch and do anything for a phone or a car. Gotta love the honesty even though his mom teaches the class! Molly didn’t feel like they had fully discussed Satan previously so they talked about his various names and how he is drawn. Then they made puppets and talked through the story again. It was a good day!
In the pre-K class, they talked about spring, May Day, Earth Day, and read three books about spring. They made May Day baskets and discussed things they like about spring – warmer days, rain, and flowers!
In the nursery, the infants and toddlers also talked about spring and then experienced it with all of their five senses. They touched, smelled, saw, tasted, and heard the sounds of spring. Then they played with toys.
If you would like to extend these lessons at home, here are some suggestions: for 3rd-6th graders, talk about the virtues of helping others and brainstorm ways they can help their neighbors, friends, and even strangers. For K-2nd graders, follow up on the idea of Satan and then discuss choices they make that aren’t necessarily “good.” What tempts them to lie, hit their sibling, or exclude someone from their game? For preschoolers, celebrate Earth Day and spring by using recycled cups, coffee containers, or cans as planters for your favorite flowers or herbs. And, for infants and toddlers, tantalize their senses every day by presenting new textures, sounds, tastes, sights, and smells. The world is so exciting!