Tapestry of Faith: Sing to the Power: A Social Justice Program for Children Grades 4-5

Introduction

Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life. — Rachel Carson, 20th-century environmental activist

This program uses the metaphor of the four elements—earth, air, fire, and water—to look at ways we can exercise our power in the world. It encourages participants to explore their sources of strength and to think and act as leaders who affect change.

An Australian Aboriginal creation story introduces the power of earth and the power of song. The children learn a theme song for this program. They explore the concept that the power of earth is the power of grounding and connection. Activities help participants get to know one another better; finding their connections deepens their sense of earth power. Participants create a graphic image of the four elements as four quarters of a circle, to use for the duration of this program.

Alternate Activity 1 in every session is an opportunity to include Joys and Sorrows in your Opening ritual.

Goals

This session will:

  • Introduce concepts and rituals of the program
  • Nurture connections among participants
  • Explore the sometimes surprising ways that we are connected
  • Link the first and seventh Unitarian Universalist Principles, by affirming that in valuing each one of us, we build connections among all of us.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

  • Learn the Sing to the Power theme song and Opening and Closing rituals
  • Discover ways everyone is grounded in their own life and location
  • Discover connections that tie people together
  • Understand the four elements (earth, air, fire, and water) by creating a graphic representation
  • Articulate that power has many forms, and that each of us can choose to exercise many kinds of power.