Faith Curriculum Library: Tapestry of Faith: Circle of Trees: A Multigenerational Program about Nourishing Deep Connections with Nature

Opening

Part of Circle of Trees

Activity time: 5 minutes

Materials for Activity

  • Chalice, candle, and lighter or LED/battery-operated candle
  • Newsprint, markers, and tape
  • Chalice lighting words and "Our Covenant" from previous workshops

Preparation for Activity

  • Select an area where the group can comfortably sit in a circle.
  • Post the chalice lighting words and "Our Covenant" where all participants can see them.

Description of Activity

Gather participants in a circle around the chalice. Select someone to light the chalice, and say the chalice lighting words together:

We light this chalice for the air that is precious . . .

for all things share the same breath-

the beast, the tree, the person,

we all share the same breath.

Including All Participants

If there are participants who are hard of hearing, consider using a hand-held microphone to help with volume. If participants are sitting on the floor, make sure that there are also chairs for those who do not wish to or cannot sit on the floor.