SUBJECT: Religion. Language and Art
GRADE LEVELS: 2-8

OBJECTIVES:
Students will increase their idea of their Catholic community.
Students will make a card to share with a parishioner who has recently celebrated a sacrament.

TIME: One 30-40 minute class period.

MATERIALS:
Card stock paper, Crayons, markers, or other coloring and craft mediums

BACKGROUND: Students should be familiar with the seven sacraments. The “Growing Up Catholic” chapter in Kid’s Explore America’s Catholic Heritage provides an excellent background for this.

ACTIVITIES:
1. Decide which sacrament and for whom you wish to make cards. The parish office should be able to provide a list of newly baptized members or those who have received First Holy Communion or Confirmation. Most parishes welcome new members during the Easter Vigil. Many parishes have whole class celebrations of Holy Eucharist or Confirmation.
2. Create a card for a specific parishioner. Use symbols on your card that fit the sacrament. For example: A shell with water or a candle for Baptism. Chalice and host, bread and grapes for Communion. Tongues of fire or a dove for Confirmation.
3. A laminated Holy Card with a prayer on the front and a greeting on the back could also be made for First Communion. Two samples of possible prayers to include on the card: Prayer 1: Jesus in my heart, I believe in your everlasting love for me. Amen.Prayer 2:I praise thee, I thank thee, I love thee, I adore thee O My Lord, for having come into my soul. Amen.
4. Don’t forget to sign who the card is from.

EXTENSION: Students could include a spiritual bouquet of prayers in the greeting card.