Tapestry of Faith: Faithful Journeys: A Program about Pilgrimages of Faith in Action for Grades 2-3

Opening

Activity time: 5 minutes

Materials for Activity

  • Chalice candle or LED/battery-operated candle
  • Lighter and extinguisher, if needed
  • Newsprint, markers and tape
  • Posters of the Unitarian Universalist Principles in both adult and children's language, or copies of Session 1, Handout 1 for all participants
  • Copies of Session 1, Leader Resource 8, UU Principles Song, for all participants

Preparation for Activity

  • Print the opening words on newsprint. Post the newsprint where the children will be able to see it when they gather.
  • Optional: Write the UU Principles Song lyrics on newsprint, and post.

Description of Activity

Gather the children in a circle. Light the chalice. Point out the chalice-lighting words on the newsprint and invite the group to read together:

We light this flame for the light of truth, the warmth of love, and the energy of action.

Indicate the poster(s) or handouts of the Unitarian Universalist Principles.

Today we celebrate our final session of Faithful Journeys. We have learned a lot about how we, like other Unitarians and Universalists through history, can put our Principles into action every day. Let's go through our Principles one more time by singing the song we have sung during our closing time.

Indicate the newsprint or handouts with the words to the UU Principles Song. Lead the group in singing the entire song to the tune of "Old McDonald Had a Farm."

Including All Participants

If the group has children who are sensitive to perfumes or other chemicals, use unscented candles or an electric or battery-operated flame. An electric flame is also recommended if you may not use open flames or if any participants are afraid of fire.