Crucifixion and Resurrection

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Supplemental Activities

If time allows, the conclusion of this lesson might be a great time to let disciples explore parts of the church, altar, and items on the altar in an appropriate way.  I like to walk disciples through the sanctuary and point out the parts of the sanctuary and altar, providing terms and descriptions as we go. Then, we return to our classroom and play "church" if time allows. 

Depending on your tradition, these church play sets might work nicely for allowing disciples to explore your tradition. The sets from Etsy tend to be well made and durable. You can also look for portable communion sets which tend to be smaller while still being quite durable, though they might be more cumbersome for small hands.

I find that letting children practice church through play is a good way to answer the questions that often arise about what is happening throughout the service - particularly during communion. Most children at this age aren't partaking of communion yet, so many of their questions tend to center around this portion of the service in particular.

I know some parents are nervous about the idea of their sons and daughters playing church or playing the part of a minister - some folks seem to think it is blasphemous - but providing children with items that are intended for play rather than set aside as sacred, is a great way for children to learn. By removing the mystery of what the minister is doing throughout the service, children are more likely to respect the practice of approaching the altar and partaking in communion when it's their turn.

Children at this age are better able to internalize new information when allowed to do so through play, so allowing them to play the different parts of the service means they're internalizing the liturgy in a meaningful way.