Basic Series the Episcopal Church Year Leaders Guide

Episcopal Curriculum for Youth

THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH YEAR Leader’s Guide

All Scripture quotations are taken from the New Revised Standard Version, unless otherwise noted.

Developed by Virginia Theological Seminary Center for the Ministry of Teaching 3737 Seminary Road Alexandria, VA 22304

Amelia J. Gearey Dyer, Ph.D., Editor-in-Chief

Dorothy S. Linthicum, Managing Editor

George J. Kroupa, III, Associate Editor

Consultants for The Episcopal Church Year Alison Auerbach The Rev. Anothony Clark The Rev. Tambria Lee The Rev. John Palarine

ISBN: 0-8192-6050-9

TABLE OF CONTENTS

BACKGROUND FOR LEADERS Teaching Youth in Episcopal Churches...... 1 Understanding Younger Youth...... 3 Who Are Leaders?...... 8 The Episcopal Curriculum for Youth ...... 12 Using the Curriculum...... 13 Sacraments of the Church...... 15

THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH YEAR: SESSION TITLES The Book of Common Prayer: Episcopal Identity...... 18 The Hymnal: Songs for Worship ...... 22 Lectionary: Bible in the Church ...... 26 Advent & Lent: Seasons of Preparation...... 30 Fasting: Days of Self Denial...... 34 Celebration: The Feasts...... 38 Christmas & Easter: Celebrating the Seasons ...... 42 Epiphany & Pentecost: The Green Seasons ...... 46 Saints: Recognizing Devotion ...... 50

TEACHING YOUTH IN EPISCOPAL CHURCHES

The aim of Christian education in Episcopal Church parishes and congregations is to assist every member in living out the covenant made in Holy Baptism (The Book of Common Prayer, page 304). Hence, the common ministry of leaders and youth focuses on matters of both faith and practice: Faith in God who made heaven and earth, in Jesus Christ the Son of God, and in the Holy Spirit who is Lord and giver of life. Practice of worship and prayer, of repentance and obedience, of loving service to all persons, and of active pursuit of God's justice and peace in the world. The content of our faith and practice is continually re-examined and corrected as we search Holy Scripture and the preserved tradition of the Church. In the words of the Baptismal Covenant, we promise to “continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers” (The Book of Common Prayer, p. 305). Holy Eucharist, the central act of worship for Christians, unites us with Jesus Christ our Lord. Again and again, as we partake of this sacrament, we remember and celebrate the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. We are called to follow Jesus, the Son of God, who lived among us as teacher, preacher, and healer. Through his powerful example, Christians have come to understand that the act of teaching is fundamental to our faith.

Teaching Is a Ministry

All Christians are teachers. Our daily lives bear witness to what we believe and treasure. Youth and leaders in the church are poised to share a singular experience that goes beyond the facts and activities of the moment. The aim of Christian education is to assist all members of the Church to discern the signs and spirits of the age and to bring sound theological judgment to bear upon what we observe and experience. The educative task in a parish or mission is a joint effort of clergy, parents, leaders, and others in the congregation. We cannot rely solely on organized classes for the instruction and nurturing of individuals. With the help and support of the whole congregation, by word and example, by prayers and witness, we seek to bring up young people in the Christian faith and way of life.

Guidelines for Youth

The teenage years can be a time of special opportunities for encountering the invigorating challenge and abiding hope of the Christian gospel. Adolescents are continuing their journeys as full members of the Church, capable of taking part in all aspects of its governance and mission in the world. Within the Baptismal Covenant, this means worshiping and learning in the Christian community, resisting evil, proclaiming the Good News of

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 1 God in Christ, seeking to serve Christ in all persons, striving for justice and peace, and respecting the dignity of all human beings. The scriptural teachings of our faith should be affirmed in programs for adolescents. Faith fosters a personal relationship with God and enriches every human relationship. Youth need the Church's encouragement to think critically and independently as they mature in faith. The ongoing process of faith formation takes on particular relevance for adolescents who are coming up against questions of personal identity and life choices. That is why churches need to focus on welcoming and including young persons in every possible way.

Gifts of Youth. Adolescence is a time of questioning, debating, and searching. The faith of young Christians thrives when they are enabled to use their own talents and abilities in pursuit of the Church's mission, working with their peers alongside experienced adults. Among the gifts adolescents bring are spontaneity, ebullience, vision, creative energies, and the ability to challenge existing structures and habits of the institution. As their convictions find focus and voice, earnest young Christians provide windows into God's presence and sometimes offer surprising perspectives for viewing the nature of God and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Counter Culture. An increasingly diverse, secular society tends to foster discrete groups with a variety of life styles. There are ever-changing forms of music, art, dress, language, and behavior. Adolescents are particularly susceptible to the societal influences of media presentations, advertising, and marketing. They manifest and live in what is popularly termed “youth culture.” The Christian faith, at its best, has always been a counter culture with a corrective and saving message for all who seek purpose and meaning in their lives. Christian educators strive to be fully informed about where youth are “coming from” in order to explore with mutual respect the claims of God in Christ. Christian education can help youth to identify the tugging forces in their world. Many teenagers search for strength to handle difficult issues of theology, family life, relationships with friends, peace and justice, and ethics. The challenge is to find appropriate and respectful ways to interact with the vernacular of young people. If, in our ministry with adolescents, we try too hard to speak the language of youth culture, we run the risk of failing to share plainly the Church's good news.

Distinctiveness. Rapid physical, emotional, and intellectual changes occur during the teenage years. Sexual maturation proceeds rapidly. Social awkwardness and self-consciousness are often apparent. The role and timing of developmental changes may vary greatly among boys and girls throughout adolescence. The challenge of ministry with youth is to meet the specific needs of youth with varied and appealing programs. Education for adolescents necessarily takes on a different look and style from programs for younger learners. An appropriate balance is necessary between active involvement of youth and

Continuity. It is desirable that people who work with youth have a mutually developed sense of purpose. Formal, integrated programs of teaching and learning, using suitable curricular resources, are needed. At the same time, it is essential to maintain a sense of continuity in Christian education for the entire congregation as one people of God. At all age levels, we have a common need to know who we are as Episcopalians in the worldwide body of Christ.

Flexibility. Episcopal congregations schedule teaching and learning is different ways and at different times. Realistic assessment of the time demands on youth is essential in planning programs for adolescents. It is important to take into account young persons' commitments within their families and the wider community. The principle of flexibility is particularly appropriate for developing study materials for use in the Church's ministry with adolescents. Especially desirable are themes study that can be adjusted to varying lengths of time, with modules designed to be arranged in a variety of sequences.

Groupings. Experience in general education suggests a workable approach for grouping adolescents: Younger Youth (ages 12-14, Junior High or Middle School grades) and Older Youth (ages 15-18, Senior High grades). In congregations where multiple groups are not feasible, a single youth group is best supported by flexible resources, adaptable to a range of developmental levels and interests.

UNDERSTANDING YOUNGER YOUTH

Who are the younger youth we teach? The key to understanding this age group lies in a heart-felt, enduring respect for youth as individuals. Such respect, accompanied by knowledge of the differences among us, shapes all our efforts as teachers. Look closely at any group of young people, and it is readily apparent that on physical characteristics alone, there is considerable diversity within the group. Reflect further on the impact of different social and ethnic backgrounds, economic circumstances, schooling opportunities, skills and interests, and it becomes quite clear that narrow descriptions do not reflect the dizzying array of social and cultural diversity present among youth of the same chronological age. To teach youth as individuals requires that we first see them as individuals. We can turn to important sources of information: Developmental theory offers insights for the teaching task. Customarily, educators have looked primarily to such theories for help in understanding the growth and development of children. Younger youth are well past the early stages of development, however, and no single developmental viewpoint appears to be adequate by itself to provide a comprehensive basis for planning instruction.

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 3 Literature is another source. Stories of youth enable adults to reconnect with adolescents and to experience, vicariously, radically different life-shaping situations. Experiences of teachers themselves can contribute much reliable information, including memories of their own journeys as young people. Taken in combination, these three sources—theory, literature, and experience—contribute to a distinctive multi-dimensional perspective on the lives and learning of young people. This blend of insights will be especially helpful for teachers in church school settings.

Theory—A Source of Information

Developmental theories help us to see the expected, sequential patterns of change from birth through maturity. All theories of development hold that increasing maturity brings a general increase in the complexity of behavior. Children move away from self-centeredness toward more social autonomy. Regardless of whether a theory uses ages or stages, the emphasis is on general expectations. No theory can completely predict the behavior of an individual. Most of the mainstream theories were formulated without particular regard for the effect of gender. Today, we are living (and teaching) amidst a greater sensitivity to issues of developmental differences between girls and boys. (See Carol Gilligan's book, In a Different Voice, for an enlightening discussion on this topic.) Thinking. We owe much to the Swiss psychologist, Jean Piaget, for underscoring the fact that the ability to think and forms ideas changes as one matures and develops. Using cognitive stages, which may be loosely associated with ages, he defined the ways of knowing that move from sensing to concrete knowing to abstract thinking. According to Piaget, younger youth have just begun to use increasingly complex mental operations and are no longer constricted by what they can see. They can think about situations from more than one point of view, handle several ideas at once, and can move back and forth in relation to a particular idea. Around age eleven, the most advanced level of cognitive functioning may be reached. At this point, youth (and presumably, all adults) can imagine possibilities, reason abstractly, and think across time—past, present and future. All individuals move back and forth in these stages when new and unfamiliar concepts are encountered. A note of caution: Cognitive theories do not specify what content students should be thinking about. And, perhaps more critically, Piaget's stages of knowing do not uniformly apply to youth from different social-cultural environments. Many observers feel that variations in life experience can dramatically alter the ages at which various types of cognitive functioning are likely to emerge. Social context. During the adolescent years, youth increase and consolidate previous developmental gains in the context of an enlarging social group—family, friends, and community. Personal interests dictate much of what they are most likely to do. Parental supervision is giving way to self-supervision and independence.

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 4 Erik Erikson's work postulates a view of development that interweaves the powerful impact of social context with ongoing biological maturation. According to Erikson, at each of eight stages in life a major psychosocial crisis must be resolved in order for development to proceed. In Stage V, the teenage years, the dominant developmental crisis revolves around identity versus role-confusion. It is a period of confusion, searching, and experimenting with a variety of roles for future choices. A sense of loyalty for different groups often causes conflict within an individual. Work by Lawrence Kohlberg, related to moral development, has melded ideas from both social and cognitive theory. With maturation, experience, and expanding strategies for thinking, youth and adults approach and resolve moral dilemmas in more complex ways. Each of these theorists gives us a broader insight into the complicated interactive processes of development. While none of them specifically addresses the growth of religious thought, their work has underscored recent efforts to depict faith development for children and adults.

Literature—A Source of Understanding

Literature helps to expand our awareness of the wide variety of experiences of adolescents. Whatever the circumstances of our own youth, literature offers a credible opportunity to “walk in someone else's moccasins.” Teachers of younger youth will be enriched by reading some of the novels about the struggles of young people. Contemporary writers such as Madeleine L'Engle, and Cynthia Voight introduce us to a modern generation of youth with complex issues, fantasies, struggles, and challenges which reflect still another generation's efforts to deal with the universal themes. David Elkind and Michael Warren have written prophetically about the stressful and hurried lives of youth today.

Experience—A Source of Connection

The teen-age years are for most people traumatic. Very few individuals would wish to relive their teen years. Ask yourself: In seventh grade, who were your friends? Your neighbors? Your favorite teachers? In the eighth grade? Ninth grade? How did you spend your time outside of school? Lastly, how many times have you said to a young person, “When I was your age, I . . . .” Our own youth—with all the glories and all the miseries—generally becomes a subjective yardstick for measuring the events in the lives of our students. On a rational level, we know that students today have vastly different experiences at school, in the community, and with friends. The textures of their daily environments, both physical and economic, are critically different. Space missions are routine, and viewers literally watch in real-time as wars are televised. Nevertheless, certain aspects of adolescents remain virtually unchanged across the years. Successes, failures, feelings, doubts, joys, and struggles remain a vital part of students' daily lives. Universal themes are evident in the questions youth ask and the answers they seek: “Who am I? Whose am I? Why am I here? What should I do? Where am I going?” It is essential to

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 5 acknowledge that these themes exist. They were part of our own youth and now become a powerful link with today's students.

Faith in the Classroom

Faith is a gift from God. We are people of faith.

These two premises underlie all that we say and do in church school classrooms. It is faith that gives church school its unique mission. We do not teach faith. We can surely hope that our work as teachers will nurture faith in the hearts and minds of our students.

Structure of faith

Teachers can interpret the actions and responses of their students better by knowing that faith is personal, always changing and growing. A widely- discussed model of faith development uses a pyramid framework of ages and stages to illuminate modal characteristics of faith across the life cycle. According to James Fowler, younger youth are literalists (Stage 3: Synthetic-Conventional Faith), looking primarily beyond the family to other spheres. Faith provides a basis for identity. In contrast, John Westerhoff uses the image of concentric rings to portray how faith grows and matures within the web of relationships in a faith community. In his model, the faith of adolescents is one of belonging to a faith community (affiliative faith) yet moving beyond to question the faith of our parents (searching faith). The title of Westerhoff's book, Will Our Children Have Faith? (1976), still resonates among leaders in Christian education.

Who are Youth?

Volumes have been written on adolescent development. The purpose here is to give leaders of this program some key pointers about the characteristics of younger youth to enable leaders to become effective teachers. This is not an exhaustive list and must be generalized. It is, however, important to be aware of these qualities and needs.

Characteristics of younger youth:

They like to have fun. Fun is not the opposite of learning nor should fun be seen as something to be avoided. On the contrary, people learn best when they are having a good time. When youth are having a good time, they often make a lot of noise. Don't be afraid of a little commotion if most of the group are on task. Encourage your teens to have fun in your class and see how much they will learn.

Seek identity. Younger youth are in an energetic process of seeking who they are, while at the same time, fearing that they may find out. Two key words for the wise leader are: accept and affirm. Accept

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 6 each person as he or she is; look for qualities in each that you like. Don't try to change them. Affirm the skills, talents, questions, concerns and uniqueness of each person in an intentional way.

Like-making choices. Many adults believe that younger youth should not be allowed to make decisions for themselves because they are too immature. Some people teach without seeking input or options from those they are teaching. Youth make decisions all the time. Our gift to them to help them to develop their abilities to make good decisions and to treat them as capable human beings.

Need to be heard. One of the best tools you can provide for younger youth are opportunities to speak out and be heard, and to listen to others in the group with respect. It is important to set the example not by what you say but by what you do. Your ability to listen to youth and respond to their ideas and comments will be a model for their own listening skills. Being heard for even a moment can be a powerful experience.

Seek approval. Approval from peers and adults is essential at this age. This need for attention and approval can lead to various expressions of behavior. Some youth will be over-achievers, trying to please by standing out above the rest. Others will seek attention by how they dress, or by the language they use. The skilled leader looks for ways to offer appropriate approval, acceptance, and affirmation while still providing guidelines, boundaries, and expectations.

Want to be valued and significant. How you treat the younger youth in your class is much more important than what you teach. If youth feel important and significant, they are more likely to learn something from the class. It is also crucial to pay attention to how the teens treat each other. The atmosphere of the classroom can enliven or poison the whole experience. Encouraging youth to behave in respectful ways to adults and to one another may be the most important lesson you can teach. Many youth in today's church school classes come from different schools, belong to different clubs and organizations, inside and outside of their schools. Building a successful group that reaches out in hospitality to newcomers and those on the fringes is one of the main goals of working with younger youth. It is also the message of the gospel.

More interested in who's there than what is taught. The friendships that already exist and the friendships that develop are often the motivating factor for attendance and learning. The skilled teacher supports and encourages these relationship while trying to avoid cliques that exclude others. A key word here is inclusiveness.

Growing and changing. Everything about this time in the lives of younger youth calls them to growth in mind, body and spirit. The hunger to grow (often subconscious) is a great ingredient for learning.

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 7 Youth want to know more about the things that affect their lives. This includes God and knowing Jesus Christ. However, they also change constantly which makes them unpredictable. Accept these deep down longings and ever-changing attitudes as gifts.

Looking for a faith of their own. Younger youth are seeking their own opinions, values, and faith. Their identity comes from becoming their own person. Youth often reject much of their parent's faith. This is an important sign that new values and a stronger faith are being formed. Embrace the searching process and affirm the importance of the ability to question, doubt and think. Your response to their doubts will encourage or discourage their journeys to spiritual knowledge. Their questions will ultimately lead to faith.

WHO ARE LEADERS?

Leaders of youth are more than teachers. To foster effective teaching and learning among its adolescent members, the Church needs adult leaders who are grounded in their own faith and identity as Christians. Effective leaders are excited about growing and learning and enjoy working with youth in a team relationship. They have high energy, genuine enthusiasm, and a passionate interest in youth. Because church leaders are expected to have a unique relationship with youth, the teacher/student relationship does not work well on Sunday morning with younger youth. Teens have been in that role all week and want something different. While it is important to share knowledge, it is more important to develop a group that can share their faith. Here are some characteristics commonly found in effective youth leaders.

Rooted in their faith and committed to Jesus Christ. Who leaders are speaks loudly to teens. This doesn't mean that leaders have to be biblical scholars or perfect Christians. It also doesn't mean they no longer have any doubts or are at the end of their own spiritual journey. Good leaders have a strong relationship with God and are comfortable with their faith.

Is Willing to be a part of a team. Helping a young person to grow in the knowledge and love of the Lord is an overwhelming task. It is essential for leaders to understand that they do not have sole responsibility for this task. Wise leaders know that they are not only part of a teaching team but also part of a network of people in the church who care about and support young people.

Is fun and enjoys being with young people. A key phrase to help leaders is “relax and enjoy.” Effective leaders know how to have fun and to share joy with young people without giving up expectations of them. Leaders must find their own balance of fun and seriousness. Affirming joy and excitement with the group, however, is essential for the leaders' full participation.

More concerned about people than facts. The ECY provides an excellent base of information to learn more about God, scripture and the Church. The sessions incorporate this learning with the issues that effect young people's lives. Effective leaders are aware of issues that are unique to their groups and look for ways to include these ideas in their presentations. When leaders give priority to what youth are thinking and feeling, the content follows.

Has a long-term commitment to the group. Good leaders are committed and consistent. There will be ups and downs, and successes and failures. Some weeks the youth may be impossible to reach, but the steadfastness of faith and commitment to the class will make a real difference in the long run. Focus on the overall success of the program and not on any one moment, hour, or week.

Building the Team

The Episcopal Curriculum for Youth is designed to be used with a team approach. Having more than one leader allows young people to have a variety of models of Christian faith. Young people relate to different adults in unique ways. This range of relationships and friendships is important. Also, the team approach allows for mutual support of the adult leaders. Sometimes an adult leader will see an issue raised by a youth as a challenge to authority. Another leader may have a different perception of what is causing the conflict and be able to step in to maintain the relationships. It is also essential for reasons of safety and protection to have teams of adults working together at all times. Finally, each person has different gifts. When each of the gifts are given together they far exceed the gifts of one individual. The best way to function well as a team is to spend a block of time together before the year begins. It is ideal to have eight to ten hours for this purpose. The team may decide to meet several times or go on retreat somewhere for this purpose. The team should decide which setting works best for them.

Suggested activities to help the team plan their strategies are outlined below:

Begin with social time together, including sharing basic facts about each other.

Share faith stories. A simple way to do this is to ask people to make a chart from birth to the present showing the highlights and low moments of their faith journey. Allow time for everyone to finish before sharing so each person can listen to each presentation.

Make a list of each person's gifts and identify the gifts, talents or interests that he or she would like to contribute to the class.

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 9 Working Together. Discuss how the team will work together including roles, tasks, and schedules. Be sure to include in your discussion how young people will be used as leaders in this program (see section on youth as leaders).

Review the curriculum materials together and discuss the best ways for the team to use them.

Planning. Draw up a plan for the year with clear responsibilities for each team member.

Leaders need information and training. Any effective leadership program begins with the sharing of information and the training of skills. This is no less true for Christian leaders. The ECY offers materials to provide a strong base of information about scripture, theology and the Church.

Teamwork does not mean just rotating Sundays. A true team requires blending-together time, talents, skills and gifts. The team should discuss and clarify the ways they will work together before beginning. The team should feel both energized and excited as they initiate this venture.

Youth as Leaders

Young people are able to assume responsibility for their own learning. As leaders they help to plan and to carry out programs. It is imperative that adolescents develop a sense of real ownership and personal investment in the Church's life and mission. They need assurance that their decisions and contributions are respected and valued. A basic premise of this curriculum is to not only teach students but also raise up Christian leaders. Many young people have outstanding leadership qualities. These qualities can be used to develop an exciting program of learning and growth. Often adult leaders overlook or ignore the leadership capabilities of younger youth who have so much to offer. Do not make this mistake. The following list will help you to recognize, build, and utilize the youth leadership of the group.

Sharing Information. In order for youth to participate effectively in planning for and leading a group, they must have the basic information available to leaders and be able to make choices of their own.

Training usually involves practice. Allowing the teens to try out new ideas, theologies and skills in a safe environment is a great way to train them for leadership roles. Giving them opportunities to lead the group is a way to practice the gifts and talents that God has given them.

Young people are not “blank slates.” The youth in the group come

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 10 with a richness of ideas, thoughts, opinions, and experiences. They are not empty, inexperienced human beings just waiting to receive facts and gems of wisdom. They have as much to teach as they have to learn. Often they are so used to being treated like “blank slates” that they are reluctant to share all that they have to offer. When they trust that their experiences and opinions are valued, a whole new world of information, learning and sharing will open up. Encourage this process, and be patient if it takes some time for it to develop.

People deserve input into decisions that affect their lives. Youth in your program deserve to have input into their learning process. Often adult leaders plan the sessions with little or no involvement from those they are trying to reach. This often leads to apathetic learning. Also, the adults miss the benefit of the wisdom and understanding of the youth about their needs, desires and insights. Although the process will be different in each situation, be intentional about learning from the youth both before beginning and then during the sessions.

Young people should be responsible for their own learning. One way to value the participants in the group is to allow them to take responsibility for their learning. This means agreeing ahead of time what will be learned and how the learning will be carried out. A contract or covenant should be established with the group, and the adult leader should hold people accountable to what they have agreed. It will take time to develop the trust for this to happen, but the benefit is enormous.

Leadership skills apply to all facets of life. If adult leaders are successful at lifting up youth leaders, the skills developed will affect other areas of the youth's lives. Youth group members will find themselves involved in leadership roles in their schools, families, churches and other organizations. They will have discovered tools that will last them the rest of their lives. These skills along with their Christian faith will make an impact on all with whom they come in contact.

Forming a youth leadership team. Although a youth leadership team will have many variations depending on each situation, it is recommended that one is formed. This may be as simple as gathering a few young people ahead of time to review the materials and make suggestions on how best to use this curriculum. A team of youth that meet with the adult team regularly and share in planning for the sessions can be developed. Certain sessions or projects could be given to a small group of youth to let them “run with it.” It is important that the adult leaders build in some time to plan the role of young people as leaders of this curriculum.

Developmental Resources Ames, Louise Bates, Ilg, Frances L., & Stanley M. Baker. Your ten to fourteen-year-old.

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 11 New York: Delacorte Press, 1988. Dillard, Annie. An American childhood. New York: Harper & Row, 1987. Elkind, David. All grown up and no place to go. Reading: Addison-Wesley, 198?. Erikson, Erik H. Childhood and society. (2nd ed.) New York: W. W. Norton, 1963. Gilligan, Carol. In a different voice. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1982. Kozol, Jonathan. Death at an early age. New York: Plume/Dutton, 1985. Kuhmerker, Lisa with Uwe Gielen & Richard L. Hayes. The Kohlberg legacy for the helping professions. Birmingham: R.E.P., 1991. Singer, Dorothy G. & Tracey A. Revenson. A Piaget primer: How a child thinks. New York: Plume/New American Library, 1978. Stevens, Richard. Erik Erikson: An introduction. New York: St. Martin's Press, 1983.

Resources on Faith Aleshire, Daniel O. Faithcare. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1988. Fowler, James W. Stages of faith. New York: Harper & Row, 1981. Hyde, Kenneth E. Religion in childhood and adolescence. Birmingham: Religious Education Press, 1990. Stokes, Kenneth. Faith is a verb. Mystic: Twenty-Third Publications, 1989. Westerhoff, John H., III. Will our children have faith? New York: Seabury Press, 1976.

Episcopal Resources The Book of Common Prayer. New York: The Church Hymnal Corporation, 1979. The Book of Occasional Services. (2nd. ed.) New York: The Church Hymnal Corporation, 1988. Booty, John E. What makes us Episcopalians? Wilton: Morehouse-Barlow, 1982. Holmes, Urban T., III. What is Anglicanism? Wilton: Morehouse-Barlow, 1982. The Hymnal 1982. New York: The Church Hymnal Corporation, 1985. Lesser feasts and fasts. (1991 ed.) New York: The Church Hymnal Corporation, 1991. Molrine, Charlotte N. & Ronald C. Molrine. Encountering Christ in the Episcopal Church. Harrisburg: Morehouse Publishing, 1992. Sydnor, William. More than words. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1990. Wall, John S. A new dictionary for Episcopalians. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1985. Westerhoff, John H. A people called Episcopalians. Atlanta: St Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 1993. When in our music God is glorified.(disks or cassettes) New York: The Church Hymnal Corporation, undated. Wolf, Barbara. Journey in faith: An inquirer's program. (rev. ed.) Minneapolis: Seabury Press, 1982. Zinser, Henry A. Continue thine forever. (2nd ed.) Wilton: Morehouse-Barlow, 1985.

THE EPISCOPAL CURRICULUM FOR YOUTH

The Curriculum uses a cumulative framework of twelve modules to be used over a period of years. Designed for Younger Youth who may be in Middle School or Junior High, it provides choices for leaders and youth to compose their own unique sequence of lessons. Three of the modules focus on Old Testament (Hebrew Scriptures), three on the New Testament, and three on Contemporary Times. Within each stream are the archetypes of Call, Covenant, and Community. In addition three modules are on the basics of Sacraments, The Episcopal Church Year, and Spiritual Life.

A Tool for Teachers

The aim of the Episcopal Curriculum for Youth (ECY) is to sustain and

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 12 strengthen the ministry of teaching in the Episcopal Church. The curriculum's focus on classroom-based efforts does not deny the importance of youth groups, confirmation classes, retreats or other patterns of Christian education in a local congregation. It does reflect an intentional decision to affirm the act of teaching and spotlight the respective roles of teachers and learners. The curriculum is a tool for teachers. It serves as a resource to help teachers formulate answers to three pivotal questions: What do I teach? The curriculum offers a series of modules on twelve different topics. Leaders using the materials are expected to pursue actively an adult-level understanding of the content of the session outlines, taking seriously their own roles as learners. Whom do I teach? Leaders are challenged anew to adapt to both the developmental characteristics of the group as well as the particular interests of each individual. The ECY addresses issues of developmental differences from two important perspectives. Content is developmentally appropriate, using Scripture as a basis for exploring issues with younger youth. Within each session provisions are made in activity suggestions for varying degrees of skill and learning styles among students. How do I teach? The curriculum was written for leaders by clergy and laity who work with youth. Options and guidelines are included to help leaders make adjustments to fit local circumstances. Embedded in the kaleidoscope of optional activity suggestions given for every session are practical comments and specific tips for guiding the process of learning. It is hoped that leaders who use the ECY will be nurtured, inspired, and enriched personally as they prepare to teach and learn and as they reflect on their efforts. Teachers will find that the session outlines in this guide provide support and structure for the inexperienced and both challenge and flexibility for the more confident. It is highly recommended that every leader have ready access to a Bible (NRSV), The Book of Common Prayer, and The Hymnal 1982. Each session includes the following:

Objective statement, to state the concepts along with objectives. Background for Leaders and Personal Views, to provide factual background and personal inspiration. Tips on the Topic, to offer useful information about working with this age group. Weavings, to prompt thinking about how this session fits into the year, vocabulary, and current events. Look For, to provide thoughts on follow-through of the session.

USING THE CURRICULUM

Planning Class Sessions

Planning sets the stage for teaching and learning. In preparation for

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 13 meeting with students, teachers need to select a set of activities, and then put these activities into an order for each class meeting. The session outlines of the Episcopal Curriculum for Youth offer three sets of activity categories that can be used to compose a class session. These are:

Teacher Supports—six sections directed at helping teachers prepare.

Essential Activities—Coming Together, Engaging, and Going Forth are the three core experiences for each session.

Optional Activities—a variety of different suggestions of activities, which teachers may choose to do in a given session. No teacher or class is expected to use every optional activity in any session outline. The stress is on choice.

The session categories function as the building blocks for planning. There is no single, “right” way to plan a class session. Teachers can construct an activity/time schedule for each class session that fits the time available, builds on their own skills, and meets the needs and interests of youth. Teachers facilitate classroom activities through interactive planning with youth. Teens will be able to exercise leadership roles in choosing and implementing what they wish to explore. Students' interests will strongly affect the direction of theme exploration and conversation.

Teachers understand their students. Students deserve attention, affirming experiences, and reasonable challenges. To nurture and guide the faith journey of another person demands a personal relationship. Bonds of trust, respect, and affection grow where caring and understanding prevail.

Teachers are interpreters. Students can expect honest answers to their questions—including the response, “I don't know.” In classroom situations, what students talk about, question, explore, and wonder about reflects their teachers' ability to mediate and interpret faith and heritage. Often the simplest of questions can evoke profound discussion. Youth can be intensely interested in wrestling with “real-world” ethical issues. As teachers and students engage in conversations of faith, they are sharing feelings and values, as well as words and facts. In a very real sense, teachers expose their beliefs when they engage in conversation with youth.

The Learning Environment

The setting where the group meets is crucial to the success of the program. In short, the less like a classroom it is, the more you will be able to facilitate learning, sharing, and growth. Pay attention to the environment you are providing, as this will make a great impact on the learning process.

Consider three possibilities to create the desired environment.

The youth room. One good alternative is a room at the church designated for young people and arranged with comfortable chairs,

Meeting in a home. Holding meetings at someone's home who lives nearby the church can be a great asset. This provides a casual, comfortable setting that usually enhances the process. This may provide some logistical problems for younger youth but it is well worth investigating. Also, people may be more open to making their homes available if it is done on a rotating basis. Don't rule out this possibility without carefully considering it.

Gathering in a restaurant. A restaurant can provide a wonderful opportunity for a meal, fellowship, and learning. Often young people who wouldn't come to the church will feel comfortable in this setting. Of course, this will raise some financial considerations, but these are not insurmountable. You could also consider meeting at a restaurant on an occasional basis as a way of promoting outreach and for celebration.

A Final Word

Remember that this is a process of helping young people grow in their knowledge and love of the Lord. There will be ups and downs, successes and failures, joys and frustrations. Often you will never know the impact you have made on a young person's life. So much happens intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually at this time in their lives that they themselves are not aware of the people who have had a direct impact. Share the love of Christ with your young people. Remember that God has called us not to be successful but to be faithful. Thanks be to God.

THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH YEAR

The content of this module focuses on the Episcopal church year and includes introductions to The Book of Common Prayer and The Hymnal 1982. Entitled The Episcopal Church Year, each session examines an element of the Church year, including seasons, feasts, lectionary, and fasts or the resources, such as the Prayer Book and Hymnal, that help define what it means to be an Episcopalian today. By understanding better the meaning of the liturgy, young people can explore the mystery of their faith in an ever increasingly secular world. Seeing themselves as Christians in the world and responding to God's call to live out the promises of the Baptismal Covenant is the hoped for outcome of this course of study.

The Episcopal Curriculum for Youth provides materials for both leaders and youth. For Teachers Leader's Guide (this volume) Contains 9 sessions of material. The sessions are:

The Book of Common Prayer: Episcopal Identity

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 15 The Hymnal: Songs for Worship Lectionary: Bible in the Church Advent & Lent: Seasons of Preparation Fasting: Days of Self Denial Celebration: The Feasts Christmas & Easter: Celebrating the Seasons Epiphany & Pentecost: The Green Seasons Saints: Recognizing Devotion

Poster Pack Offers 6 large sheets of color posters or black-and-white resource posters. Intended for use as a classroom resource.

The Guide and Packet are undated and can be reused. We recommend that congregations have one Leader's Guide for each teacher along with one Poster Pack for each group of youth.

For Students Session Leaflets (student leaflets—one for each session) In attractive, colorful format, each leaflet includes: Scripture Commentary and prayer by youth Illustrations Voices: thoughts from various authors, politicians, theologians, and others on the session topic Prayers and words to remember Bible reflections to read during the week

Bibles and Prayerbooks Special editions of the Holy Bible and The Book of Common Prayer have been created for the Episcopal Curriculum for Youth. It is recommended that each youth have their own copy of these important books of our faith.

Additional Gear Backpacks, patches, bookmarks, and bookplates are also available to give youth a sense of belonging and common purpose.

Teaching Resources Bowman, Locke E., Jr. Teaching for Christian hearts, souls, and minds. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1990. Farnham, Suzanne G., et. al. Listening Hearts: Discerning Call in Community. Harrisburg: Morehouse, 1991. Little, Sara. To set one's heart: Belief and teaching in the Church. Atlanta: John Knox Press, 1983. Harris, Maria. Teaching and religious imagination. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1987. Kujawa, Sheryl A. and Sibley, Lois. Resource Book for Ministry with Youth and Young Adults in the Episcopal Church. New York: Episcopal Church Center, 1995.

The Episcopal Church Year-Younger Youth Copyright © 2009 Virginia Theological Seminary 16 Music Resources Anderson, Joham, compiler. The Tune Book. Songs and Creations, Inc., P. O. Box 7, San Anselno, California 94979, 1994. Gather, Volume 1 and Volume 2. GIA Publications, Inc. 7404 South Mason Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60638, 1994. Baptist Hymnal. Nashville: Convention Press, 1975. Glory and Praise, Vol. 2. Phoenix: North American Liturgy Resources, 1982. Glory and Praise, Vol. 3. Phoenix: North American Liturgy Resources, 1982. Lift Every Voice and Sing II. New York: The Church Hymnal Corporation, 1993 Songs for Celebration. Church Hymnal Series IV. New York: The Church Hymnal Corporation, 1980.

Book of Common Prayer: Episcopal Identity The Episcopal Church Year

Objective This session provides an intro- bishop of Canterbury, produced the duction to The Book of Common first Book of Common Prayer in Prayer. Youth will be able to explain 1549 and later its 1552 revision. how The Book of Common Prayer The Anglican Church blended provides identity for the Episcopal liturgy and structure from the Ro- Church through worship. They will man Catholic tradition with its own name the major parts of the Prayer unique beliefs and practices. Many Book and state how these parts of its liturgical components date relate to daily prayer and the cycle of back to pre-Christian Jewish prac- life. tices. The Book of Common Prayer is SESSION LEAFLET Background for Leaders divided into several distinct sec- The Commentary summarizes the tions, each one relating to daily Art—Jan Moffatt history and contents of The Book of prayer and worship, the cycle of Common Prayer. Key terms are human life, or the Church calendar. Key Verse—O come, let us worship Anglican Church and the Protestant The Prayer Book recognizes four and bow down, let us kneel before Episcopal Church in the United general categories of worship: the Lord, our Maker! States. For spiritual preparation think regular worship, special days, —Psalm 95:6 about your use of the Prayer Book to notable personal occasions, and guide personal devotions. Episcopal rites that must be per- Youth Commentary and Prayer formed by a bishop. Commentary Along with the political indepen- Voices—Rufus Jones, Honoré de The Book of Common Prayer is a dence of America came the inde- Balzac, C. S. Lewis, Avery Brooke collection of rites, sacraments, pendence of the Anglican tradition prayers, and guided Scripture read- from its English origin. Prior to the Daily Reflections ings that give form to daily worship American Revolution, colonists and the lifelong journey of Christian used the English prayer book. Words to Remember faith in the Episcopal Church. It also Americans saw the need for a contains the Church calendar that distinctly American prayer book. Prayer—For the Parish (BCP, p. outlines the rhythm of seasons and The first American version was 817) celebrations. The Prayer Book incor- ratified by the General Convention porates Scripture throughout its of the Protestant Episcopal Church pages which include acts of devo- in the United States in 1789. Over tion, customs, and hymns that date the years the Prayer Book was changed by successive General back to the earliest Church. The Conventions, most recently in Book of Common Prayer is a guide 1979. As elements of the Prayer for all Episcopalians in both corpo- Book have changed over time, The rate and private worship. The Church of England, later Book of Common Prayer has been known as the Anglican Church, revised without altering the funda- separated from the Roman Catholic mental beliefs of Episcopal faith. Church in 1543 during the Refor- mation. Thomas Cranmer, the Arch

reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, The Book of Common Prayer one God, now and forever. Amen. stands as the identity of the Episco- For the Mission of the Church pal Church and demonstrates the The Book of Common Prayer, p. 816 uniqueness of the tradition as well as its ties to Anglican and Catholic Coming Together roots. (Time: 10-15 min) Hang Resource Poster No. 1 at the LECTOR'S TEXT Personal Views front of the room. Be sure to have O come, let us sing to the Lord; let Do most Episcopalians pick up Prayer Books for each person in the us make a joyful noise to the rock of and explore The Book of Common group if possible. As youth arrive, hand our salvation! Let us come into his Prayer with confidence and inter- them a question based on the worship presence with thanksgiving; let us est? How familiar are you with The service that day. For example: What make a joyful noise to him with Book of Common Prayer? The page in The Book of Common Prayer is songs of praise! For the Lord is a Prayer Book is a treasure which the collect that was used today? Where great God, and a great King above belongs to all Episcopalians. We is the service that was used during the all gods; In his hand are the depths can demonstrate through our ac- early worship period? Give them time of the earth; the heights of the tions that The Book of Common to find the answers. mountains are his also. The sea is Prayer is important and an integral After everyone has gathered, ask his, for he made it, and the dry land, part of our religious life both at the youth to find Psalm 95:1-7 in their which his hands have formed. O church and in private. Bibles. Select a lector to lead the fol- come, let us worship and bow down, The Prayer Book can also be- lowing prayer (Session Leaflet, p. 2). let us kneel before the Lord, our come a part of a joyful and power- Maker! For he is our God, and we ful devotional life. Begin by reading Lector: Let us pray. are the people of his pasture, and daily devotions for individuals and Dear God, Thank you for The Book the sheep of his hand. families (BCP, p. 137-140). These of Common Prayer. Thank you for Psalm 95:1-7 are brief forms of prayer for the giving us a book which so unites us morning, noon, early evening and in our faith. Thank you for giving us end of the day that provide an this great tool so that we can prop- opportunity to incorporate prayer erly worship you. Amen. —Michael, Grade 7 TIPS ON THE TOPIC into the busiest of days. Scripture

Many Episcopalians are only readings from the lectionary and Lector: A reading from Psalms, familiar with the Eucharist servic- personal prayers can be incorpo- chapter 95, verses 1 through 7. es in The Book of Common rated in these devotions. Make (Full text on p. 2) Prayer. Encourage the youth to these devotions a part of your daily Lector: The Word of the Lord. discover how much more this routine for the week prior to People: Thanks be to God. special book offers. meeting with the youth so that you

Be sensitive to youth who may will be able to share this experi- have learning disabilities or diffi- ence with them. Engaging (Time: 15-20 min) culty reading. Include alternative How can we use the Prayer Ask each person to read the ques- activities or work in groups or Book to come to know the Bible tion and answer he or she had from the pairs. better? Even more importantly, how Coming Together activity. Discussion Starter: Why do you can The Book of Common Prayer Did you have difficulty finding the think the Church's book of liturgy bring us closer to God? How do we answer in The Book of Common is called The Book of Common pass this heritage to young people? Prayer? Prayer? Everliving God, whose will it is Did you know that the collects and that all should come to you Scripture references are in The through your Son Jesus Christ: Book of Common Prayer? Inspire our witness to him, that Pass out paper and pencils, and ask all may know the power of his the youth to divide in pairs. Ask each forgiveness and the hope of his pair to design a timeline of an resurrection; who lives and imaginary

Episcopal Curriculum for Youth—The Episcopal Church Year: Session 1 Copyright © 1996 Virginia Theological Seminary 19 person's life. They should include general worship, or others. major life events on one side of the Display the covers at your line. On the other side of the line, church. write down appropriate services, prayers, and celebrations from The Games Book of Common Prayer that Prayer Book jeopardy: Ask the correspond to the person's life, such youth write on index cards jeop- as birth, baptism, marriage, and ardy-style questions about The WEAVINGS burial. Encourage them to look in the Book of Common Prayer. They Table of Contents, and then spend can work individually or in small Each church of the Anglican Com- some time just looking through the groups. Collect the cards, and munion, such as the Church of book. divide the group into two teams England or the Anglican Church in Ask each pair to share their time- or let each person play individu- Australia, has its own prayer book. If lines with the group. Look for simi- ally. Ask participants to raise you visited an Anglican Church in a larities and differences. Invite them their hands when they know the country other than the United States, to talk about other parts of The Book correct answer; a point is de- you would be able to participate of Common Prayer that they ducted for a wrong answer. The even if you could not understand the discovered while doing the timeline. game is over when there are no language. In each Anglican church How could you use the Book of more questions. throughout the world, a prayer book Common Prayer when you are with similar wording and structure is not at church? Media used. If possible, look at a prayer Which part of The Book of Com- Today's youth live in a media- book from another English-speaking mon Prayer do you think is most rich culture that the Church cannot country and note the similarities and important? Why? ignore. However, congregational differences from The Book of norms about appropriate experi- Common Prayer. Optional Activities ences vary and need to be re- Throughout the Book of Common The following activities offer spected. When choosing media Prayer, there are italicized instruc- groups a wide range of choices. activities consider local sentiments tions for conducting the services Consider the interests and strengths and prevailing laws covering public called rubrics. In the first prayer of youth and leaders and select performances of copyrighted mate- books, directions were printed in those activity options that seem best rial. red, and over time, the Latin word suited to local time and talents. Video: Show a clip of a mar- for red, rubrica, was applied to all Remember no one can do every- riage ceremony from a humor- directions in the prayer book. The thing! ous movie such as Four Wed- rubrics offer opportunities for varia- dings and a Funeral or Princess tion within services and during spe- Expressions Bride. Identify parts of the mar- cific seasons of the church year. Worship: Choose a service from riage service that are similar or Everyone gathered shares a com- The Book of Common Prayer the different from the service in The mon responsibility to participate in group is interested in. Read Book of Common Prayer, p. the prayers and worship. No one sits through the service and select 422-438. idle; all take part. appropriate readings and prayers Print: Pass out sections of the that appeal to the group. Ask for newspaper to pairs of youth. Ask volunteers to take part in the them to find events, articles and service; the rest of the group can photos that are connected to RESOURCE POSTER be the congregation. Hang Re- sections of The Book of Com- Worship in Churches (No. 1) source Poster No. 1 at the altar mon Prayer that deal with the area. If appropriate, invite another cycle of life (birth, marriage, fu- group to worship with you. neral, others). New covers: Design a new cover for the next edition of The Book of Common Prayer. Decide how the Prayer Book will be used—by youth groups, senior centers,

Music Tour: Visit a religious communi- Going Forth Music is important for today's ty that celebrates the daily offic- Gather the group for a closing youth and can be an integral part of es. Often cathedrals and other prayer and dismissal. Read together youth experience in the context of churches also schedule different the prayer on page 817 of The Book of Bible and Church activities. The services such as noonday Common Prayer (also on p. 3 of the music suggestions offered here prayer and Compline. Select Session Leaflet). reflect a broad variety of possibilities one and visit as a group. from simple listening to hearty music Worship lock-in: Plan a day- Leader: Let us pray. making. Seek out musicians within long lock-in that includes the Almighty and everliving God, ruler of youth, church, and community daily offices. Allow time to talk all things in heaven and earth, hear groups to sing and play along. about the services. This could our prayers for this parish family. Read or sing “Help us, O Lord, to be scheduled during Lent or Ad- Strengthen the faithful, arouse the learn” (The Hymnal 1982, 628). vent. careless, and restore the penitent. How can The Book of Common Grant us all things necessary for our Prayer help us learn the truth? Voices common life, and bring us all to be Sing “If Today You Hear God's Read and discuss the following of one heart and mind within your Voice” (Gather, GIA Publications, quotations (Session Leaflet, p. 2). holy Church; through Jesus Christ 82). our Lord. Amen. Listen to “Love Song for a Savior” There is no great future for any For the Parish by Jars of Clay from the CD Jars people whose faith has burned The Book of Common Prayer, p. 817 of Clay. out. Rufus Jones Leader: Let us go forth into the Service world, rejoicing in the power of the Game night: Plan a game night God reveals Himself unfailingly Spirit. at your church to raise money to to the thoughtful seeker. People: Thanks be to God. purchase Prayer Books for a Honoré de Balzac mission church. Use board games Look For or be creative and make your Every [church] service. . . Are youth able to explain how The own. Include games of people of “works” best—when, through Book of Common Prayer gives the all ages. long familiarity, we don't have to Episcopal Church its unique identity? think about it. As long as you Can they relate the major parts of The Sharing notice, and have to count, the Book of Common Prayer with daily Repair: Arrange for the youth to steps, you are not yet dancing prayer and the cycle of life? Can they mend Prayer Books that are in but only learning to dance. . . name ways The Book of Common disrepair. The perfect church service Prayer can be used in their own lives? Challenge: Play the Prayer Book would be the one we were jeopardy game with a group of almost unaware of; our attention adults or older teens. Add ques- would have been on God. tions if necessary or ask adults C. S. Lewis and teens to submit their own questions. At the conclusion, Thank you, God, for bringing share what you have learned together so many people who about The Book of Common love you. Help us to pray and Prayer. sing as if with one voice and to lose our differences in remem- Study bering you. Try it: Attend different services Avery Brooke such as Compline, a special Holy Day service, an ordination, a marriage ceremony, or a funeral.

The Hymnal: Songs for Worship The Episcopal Church Year

Objective The focus of this session is the posed hymns to reflect the music used for worship from The spiritual experience of the singer. Hymnal 1982. The youth will be able The Christian hymn “Joy to the to identify familiar hymns and de- World” is perhaps his best known scribe how the Hymnal is used in work. Charles and John Wesley worship. also wrote many hymns. Charles is considered the most gifted of all the Background for Leaders English hymn writers and is best The Commentary looks at the use known for his Easter hymn “Jesus of hymns throughout the life of the Christ is Risen Today.” SESSION LEAFLET Church. Key people are Thomas By the 19th Century, hymnals Cranmer, Isaac Watts, and Charles were being published for congre- Art—Jan Moffatt and John Wesley. For spiritual prep- gational use. Anglican hymn books aration, think about the importance of began identifying particular hymns Key Verse—. . . and with gratitude music in your life and the worship of for the liturgical seasons and sacra- in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, the Church. mental devotion and practice. and spiritual songs to God. The past three decades have —Colossians 3:16b Commentary produced a renewal in the spiritual A hymn is a sacred poem set to life of the Church that has created Youth Commentary and Prayer music and offered to God by singing a “worldwide outburst of creative or chanting. The book of Psalms was liturgical and musical activity un- Voices—Augustine, Mahaila Jack- the first collection of hymns used by precedented since the reformation” son, Marvin Gaye, Patrick of Ireland ancient Israel. The early Church (The Hymnal 1982, p. ii). Most continued using psalms and added notable is the use of alternative Daily Reflections variations found in the New Tes- forms of worship music such as the tament, including the Magnificat or folk mass, the inclusion of music Words to Remember Mary's Song, (Luke 1:46-55) and the from a range of cultures, ecu- Nunc dimmitis or Song of Simeon, menical overtones, and the Prayer—For Church Musicians and (Luke 2:29-32). removal of some gender exclusive Artists (BCP, p. 819) Eventually two forms of hymns language. emerged in the early Church. One The Hymnal 1982 contains type was designed to express private music for all hours of the day, devotion, and a second was intended church seasons, feast and fast to impart doctrine. days, sacraments, and the disci- During the Reformation, Martin pline of the faith. Luther and John Calvin altered the content of the Church's hymn collec- For further study: Refer to the tion, insisting that every hymn be New Grove Dictionary of Music and grounded in Scripture. From this The Hymnal Companion 1982. period came the metrical versions of the psalms still used today. Hymn singing familiar in churches today began in the 18th century. Writers such as Isaac Watts com

Personal Views When do we use hymns with a num- Music is an integral part of our ber preceded by an “S”? LECTOR'S TEXT lives. It can evoke a memory, After everyone has gathered, ask As God's chosen ones, holy and be- create a mood, or alter an experi- the youth to find Colossians 3:12-17 in loved, clothe yourselves with com- ence. Often we associate a song their Bibles. Select a lector to lead the passion, kindness, humility, with a significant event or person in following prayer (Session Leaflet, p. 2). meekness, and patience. Bear with our lives. Imagine the most one another and, if anyone has a memorable moments in your per- Lector: Let us pray. complaint against another, forgive sonal history. Is there a song or a Most merciful God, give us each other; just as the Lord has hymn that you associate with it? the grace to sing your praise: forgiven you, so you also must for- Because many of the hymns are the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. give. Above all, clothe yourselves based on Scripture, sometimes a Give us the joy to praise your name. with love, which binds everything familiar tune may come to mind as Amen. together in perfect harmony. And let we read the Bible. Have the words Leila, Grade 6 the peace of Christ rule in your to a hymn or a melody played in hearts, to which indeed you were your mind during a period of prayer Lector: A reading from The Letter of called in the one body. And be or spiritual reflection? Paul to the Colossians, chapter 3, thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell Do you find yourself greeting old verses 12 through 17. in you richly; teach and admonish hymns like familiar friends? (Full text on p. 2) one another in all wisdom; and with Teenagers often say that music is Lector: The Word of the Lord. gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, the one thing that they cannot do People: Thanks be to God. hymns, and spiritual songs to God. without. Is there a piece of music And whatever you do, in word or sung in the church that you cannot Engaging (Time: 15-20 min) deed, do everything in the name of live without? Select a theme song with a catchy the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God Take time this week to look tune from a popular television program the Father through him. through the Hymnal and read the or cartoon that youth are familiar with. Colossians 3:12-17 words to hymns that catch your The group might also select a eye. Reflect on these words as you showtune from a musical. TIPS ON THE TOPIC prepare for this session. Divide into small groups, and ask Some youth may not be familiar Joyful, joyful, we adore thee, the youth to compose a song for wor- with The Hymnal 1982. Give the God of glory, Lord of love; hearts ship that can be set to the selected group time to look at it. Use a unfold like flowers before thee, tune. They can write about a church popular piece to help them learn praising thee, their sun above. season or use the Scripture from the how to read a hymn. Explain that Melt the clouds of sin and bulletin in the Coming Together activity. the hymns preceded by an “S” are sadness; drive the dark of doubt One or more of the groups could also portions of The Book of Common away; giver of immortal glad- compose a hymn for one of the seven Prayer that can also be read by ness, fill us with the light of day. Principal Feast Days (Session 6) or for the congregation. Joyful, joyful, we adore thee one of the sacraments, such as The Hymnal 1982, 376 Baptism. The use of music varies widely in the Church. Some churches use After the groups are finished, stage Coming Together renewal and ethnic music, while a “hymn sing” with each group (Time: 10-15 min) others prefer more traditional performing their composition. If Bring enough Hymnals for each forms. Encourage youth to be appropriate, suggest they add motions youth. As they arrive, hand out a open minded about expressions or movement with their hymns. bulletin from a worship service and of prayer and praise to God. When everyone has performed, ask them to look up the musical Be sensitive to music issues in refer to the questions raised in the citations. Write the following your congregation. Some people Coming Together activity. questions on a chalkboard or may want to return to the “oldies,” Can you find any connection be- paper: while others would like to add tween the hymns and the Scripture Were hymns were selected for a guitars. passages in the church bulletin? reason? Discussion Starter: What is your How many times did the congre- Which hymn do you like the favorite hymn? gation sing? best? Why? Can you match the hymns with

passages from The Book of the name of the hymn. After Common Prayer and the Bible? each team has had a turn, the Identify the hymns that reflect musician adds more notes. The praise, thanksgiving, and joy. object of the game is to see how many notes must be played Optional Activities before the youth recognize and The following activities offer name the hymn. For bonus groups a wide range of choices. points, identify the season of the Consider the interests and strengths Church year that the hymn is of youth and leaders and select used. those activity options that seem best suited to local time and talents. Media WEAVINGS Remember no one can do every- Today's youth live in a media- This session could be scheduled thing! rich culture that the Church cannot before a youth-led worship service ignore. However, congregational to help youth in the selection of Expressions norms about appropriate experi- hymns. Rounds: Look up the section on ences vary and need to be re- The Hymnal 1982 changed the rounds and canons, beginning spected. When choosing media words of some hymns to add more with number 710 in The Hymnal activities consider local sentiments inclusive language, while other 1982. Select one of the rounds and prevailing laws covering public hymns were left unchanged. We and sing it together. If the group is performances of copyrighted mate- now sing “Good Christian friends, too small to sing rounds, record rial. rejoice” (107) instead of “Good the group singing the round a few Video: Watch either Sister Act I Christian men, rejoice.” However the times, then play the tape while the or Sister Act II, or just the seg- words to “God rest you merry, group harmonizes with itself! ments showing the choir sing- gentlemen” (105) were left un- Cover design: Describe the ing. Ask the youth to compare changed. Compare the hymns in following scenario: A new hymnal this music with the hymns they The Hymnal 1940 with those in The is being developed. The publisher hear at worship service in their Hymnal 1982. What other words wants to produce several covers own church. were changed? to make the book more desirable. Print: Music critics write reviews The words of some hymns reflect While the pew version may look of new albums recently released the times in which they were written. similar to The Hymnal 1982, other in magazines and newspapers. In “Thine arm, O Lord, in days of copies should appeal to children, Rolling Stone, for example, often old” (The Hymnal 1982, 567) the youth, and people of other highlights popular artists whose writer lists those to be healed as the cultures. Your job is to design a lyrics have religious themes, blind, the deaf, the palsied, the cover for one of these groups. such as Jars of Clay. Write a lame, and the leper. If you were (Materials needed: paper, “review” of one of the compo- writing this hymn today, what dis- crayons, markers, paint.) sitions written during the Engag- eases or disabilities would you ing activity. include for the “arm” of the Lord to Games heal? Name that tune: Compile a list of Music about 20 familiar hymns that are Music is important for today's sung by your church. Ask a youth youth and can be an integral part of who can play the piano or other youth experience in the context of instrument to be the “tune maker.” Bible and Church activities. The (If no one plays an instrument, music suggestions offered here ask one person to hum the tune.) reflect a broad variety of possibili- Divide the group into teams to ties from simple listening to hearty play a version of the game show music making. Seek out musicians “Name that Tune!” The game within youth, church, and commu- begins with the musicians playing nity groups to sing and play along. the first few notes of the hymn. The teams take turns guessing

Read or sing “Joyful, joyful, we Study Going Forth adore thee” (The Hymnal 1982, 376). Compare: Locate copies of Gather the group for a closing Who wrote the music for this hymn? hymnals from other denomina- prayer and dismissal. Read together Learn a song from Lift Every tions. Compare the types of the prayer on page 819 of The Book of Voice and Sing II, such as “Bye hymns in the hymnals with The Common Prayer (also on p. 3 of the and Bye” (3). This is an African Hymnal 1982. See if favorite Session Leaflet). American hymnal that can be hymns found in more than one used by any Episcopal church. book have the same words and Leader: Let us pray. Listen to the “Gregorian Chant” by tunes. O God, whom saints and angels The Monks of Santiago. Puns: Look up “Wilt thou forgive delight to worship in heaven: Be that sin, where I begun,” 140, in ever present with your servants who Service The Hymnal 1982. How many seek through art and music to Learning about others: Visit a puns can you find? Don't perfect the praises offered by your church service in another denom- overlook the author of the people on earth; and grant to them ination to experience alternative hymn's words! even now glimpses of your beauty, ways of using music in worship. Concerts: Check the calendar and make them worthy at length to Invite youth from the church you in your area for local listings of behold it unveiled for evermore; visit to attend a worship service at free sacred music concerts. through Jesus Christ our Lord. your church. Plan a social time Amen. afterwards. Voices For Church Musicians and Artists Singalong: Sponsor a parish- Read and discuss the following The Book of Common Prayer, p. 819 wide hymn sing with one or more quotations (Session Leaflet, p. 2). of your church choirs. For every Leader: Let us go forth into the song requested, ask for a dona- The one who sings prays twice. world, rejoicing in the power of the tion for organizations providing Augustine Spirit. services for people who are hear- People: Thanks be to God. ing impaired or for another worthy I sing because I'm happy; and I cause. sing because I'm free. Look For Mahaila Jackson Are the youth able to find music in The Hymnal 1982 that relates to wor- Sharing Music is one of the closest link- ship? Were they able to enjoy both the Sing a song: Share the hymn ups with God that we can prob- music from the Hymnal and their own you wrote for the Engaging activi- ably experience. I think it's a music in praise of God? ty with a younger group of chil- common vibrating tone of the dren. Help them select a tune and musical notes that holds all life write their own hymn. together. Repairs: Work with your music Marvin Gaye director or organist to stage a Hymnal repair party. I sing as I arise today! Top ten: Poll people at a coffee I call on my Creator's might: hour or before worship for their The will of God to be my guide, favorite hymns. Use the results to The eye of God to be my sight, make a list of the “Top Ten The word of God to be my Hymns” at your church. Publish speech, the list in the church bulletin or The hands of God to be my stay, newsletter. The shield of God to be my strength, The path of God to be my way. Patrick of Ireland

Lectionary: Bible in the Church The Episcopal Church Year

Objective The focus of this session is the The Lectionary for Sundays selection of Scripture for daily and (BCP p. 889-931) assigns Sunday worship that is found in the readings and psalms over a three lectionary in The Book of Common year period for use at celebrations Prayer. Youth will be able to name of the Holy Eucharist. Until the and locate the two types of lection- 1979 Book of Common Prayer, the aries in The Book of Common Sunday lectionary used only a one Prayer. They also will be able to year cycle; the actual Scripture select the appropriate readings for a passages were included in The given Sunday and week day. 1928 Book of Common Prayer. Years A, B, and C of the Lec- SESSION LEAFLET Background for Leaders tionary for Sundays use readings The Commentary briefly from the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Art—Jan Moffatt describes the purpose and back- and Luke, respectively, with ground of the lectionary. A key per- supplements from the Gospel of Key Verse—Your word is a lamp to son is Archbishop Thomas Cranmer; John. The lectionary also desig- my feet and a light to my path. a key term is lectionary. Think about nates specific collects for use on —Psalm 119:105 how you use Scripture in your daily Sundays, Feast Days and Holy worship as you prepare this session. Days. Youth Commentary and Prayer The Lectionary for Sundays Commentary provides a focal point and corner- Voices—Johann Wolfgang van The lectionary organizes Scripture stone for preaching and teaching in Goethe, Robert A. Millikan, Robert for worship and preaching around the Episcopal Church. The lec- E. Lee, Daniel Webster the Principal Feasts, the Holy Days tionary also connects the Episcopal and the liturgical seasons of the Church with other denominations. Daily Reflections Church Year. Archbishop Thomas Many of the same Sunday readings Cranmer, the editor of the first Book are shared with Roman Catholics, Words to Remember of Common Prayer (1549) hoped to Lutherans, Methodists, and Pres- develop an orderly and progressive byterians. Prayer—Proper 28 (BCP, p. 236) schedule of Scripture readings for use in the Church in England. The Daily Office Lectionary (BCP Personal Views p. 934-1001) assigns readings and Have you ever thought about psalms over a two year period for the how much Scripture is read for the Daily Offices of Morning and Evening Daily Offices (Morning and Evening Prayer (BCP pp. 36-102 and 115- Prayer) or in the celebration of the 126). Those following this lectionary, Holy Eucharist? Reading Morning through the Daily Office or personal Prayer, for example, usually in- study, will read almost the entire volves praying one or two Psalms, Bible in a two year period. The reading two or three passages of current Daily Office lectionary Scripture, and saying or singing remains close to Cranmer's original one or two canticles in response to design. God's word. (Canticles are hymns

or chants usually from the Bible, A. We understand the meaning of such as The Song of Zechariah, the Bible by the help of the Holy BCP, p. 92, based on the passage Spirit, who guides the Church in from Luke 1:68-79.) the true interpretation of the Likewise, the Liturgy of the Scriptures. Word in the Holy Eucharist usually Catechism includes readings from the Old Tes- The Book of Common Prayer, p. 853

LECTOR'S TEXT tament, Psalms, Epistles, and one Your word is a lamp to my feet and a of the Gospels. When we reflect Coming Together light to my path. I have sworn an on the amount of Scripture in our (Time: 10-15 min) oath and confirmed it, to observe liturgy, we realize that the Episco- At the front of the room, hang Re- your righteous ordinances. I am pal Church devotes significant source Poster No. 2 or a piece of paper severely afflicted; give me life, O attention to the Word of God. with the number 19 written in gold. Lord, according to your word. Accept Through the use of the daily Make sure Bibles and Prayer Books my offerings of praise, O Lord, and lectionary, the Sunday encounter are available for each youth if possible. teach me your ordinances. I hold my with Word of God in Scripture can As the youth enter, give them a Prayer life in my hand continually, but I do continue during the rest of the Book and ask them to determine the not forget your law. The wicked have week. Publications and Bible study date of Easter for the year they laid a snare for me, but I do not stray groups, such as daily devotions graduate from high school by using the from your precepts. Your decrees are from Forward Movement and the directions on page 880 of The Book of my heritage forever; they are the joy Bible Reading Fellowship, are Common Prayer. Encourage them to of my heart. I incline my heart to usually available to help us read work in groups. perform your statutes forever, to the Scripture in a devotional way. After everyone has gathered, ask end. How would you describe your the youth to find Psalm 119:105-112 in Psalm 119:105-112 Monday through Saturday encoun- their Bibles. Select a lector to lead the ter with the God through Holy following prayer (Session Leaflet, p. 2). Scripture? Does your church offer a Lector: Let us pray. weekly Bible study or small group Dear God and Heavenly Father— devoted to reading, studying, and Please help us use your Word as a light for our lives. Show us the right TIPS ON THE TOPIC applying Scripture? Have you path to go on. As you already know, Often young people think the thought about reading Morning or O Lord, we have suffered already. Bible is difficult to read and has Evening Prayer on a daily basis? Keep us on the right path so we little to say to them. Encourage Explore new ways to make Bible don't stray from your Word. Amen. them to explore the Bible by using study a regular part of your life Sara, Grade 7 the lectionary. seven days a week. Paul said in

Youth are curious about other Hebrews 4:12, “Indeed, the word of Lector: A reading from Psalms, faiths and denominations. Let God is living and active, sharper chapter 119, verses 105 through 112. them know that people from many than any two-edged sword, piercing (Full text on p. 2) other churches and faiths, until it divides soul from spirit, joints Lector: The Word of the Lord. including Roman Catholics, Lu- from marrow; it is able to judge the People: Thanks be to God. therans, Methodists, and Presby- thoughts and intentions of the

terians, often read the same heart.” Scripture passages as Episcopa- Q. Why do we call the Holy Scrip- Engaging (Time: 15-20 min) lians on Sunday morning. tures the Word of God? Ask the youth to share their findings Discussion Starter: What is your A. We call them the Word of from the Coming Together exercise. favorite Scripture verse or pas- God because God inspired Was it difficult to figure out the exact sage? their human authors and date? because God still speaks to What does the number 19 mean? us through the Bible. Why is it in gold? Q. How do we understand the What is the golden number for your meaning of the Bible? graduation year?

Share with the group information the cookies and verse citations about the lectionary from the Com- as their snack. mentary. Ask them if they have ever heard the word “lectionary.” Divide Games into small groups and invite the youth Bible quiz: Play a Bible quiz by to turn to the directions on page 888 making up a list of statements of The Book of Common Prayer. Ask directly related to Scripture the young people to find the Sunday passages in the lectionary. For gospel reading for Proper 28 in the example, Jesus feeds 5,000 year of their high school graduation people, Matthew 14:13-21. To and then locate and read the gospel respond to the statements, WEAVINGS in the Bible. youth must state the lectionary Schedule this session near or before Next ask the youth to find the year and the date it is closest to. Proper 28 (around November 16) so gospel reading for their birthday in the youth can recognize Scripture the year of their high school gradua- Media readings and perhaps write a collect tion based on the directions on page Today's youth live in a media- for the worship service. 934 of the Prayer Book. Finally, look rich culture that the Church cannot The word “canon” comes from the up the Scripture in the Bible and read ignore. However, congregational Greek word for rule or standard. In their “birthday gospels.” norms about appropriate experi- early Christian history, the word ences vary and need to be re- came to mean a list of religious Optional Activities spected. When choosing media writings that are “authoritative.” The following activities offer activities consider local sentiments These lists were used in the early groups a wide range of choices. and prevailing laws covering public church in selecting appropriate Consider the interests and strengths performances of copyrighted mate- readings for services and establish- of youth and leaders and select rial. ing theology. In about the fourth those activity options that seem best Video: Watch the clip from the century. the “canonical” texts were suited to local time and talents. movie Monty Python's Holy Grail assembled in a single volume that Remember no one can do every- about the beatitudes. Compare we call the Bible. thing! the movie blessings with the We take for granted the availability passage in Matthew 5. of Bibles in this country. During the Expressions Print: Compare Bible transla- Cold War, visitors often smuggled Common threads: Bring several tions of the gospel reading used Bibles to people in communist bulletins and Scripture inserts in worship that day. Bring in countries in the former USSR. To- from the worship service. Ask the several different translations that day, Bibles are scarce or even youth to look for common threads should be available from the forbidden in some areas of Asia, or connections among hymns, church library or the rector. How Africa, and the Middle East. Cherish prayers and Scripture readings. are the translations similar or your freedom to have Bibles in many Collect: Working in small groups, different? Is the meaning translations by reading the Bible write a collect to reflect the different? each day this week. themes and ideas of the gospel for Proper 28 for this year or the Music year of their high school gradua- Music is important for today's Resource Poster tion. Look at other collects, in- youth and can be an integral part of The Golden Number (No. 2) cluding the one for Proper 28 on youth experience in the context of p. 236 of The Book of Common Bible and Church activities. The Prayer, to see what to include. music suggestions offered here Icing on the cookie: Bring in reflect a broad variety of possibili- large, un-iced sugar cookies and ties from simple listening to hearty icing in pastry tubes. Give each music making. Seek out musicians youth an opportunity to write the within youth, church, and commu- Scripture reference of their nity groups to sing and play along. “birthday gospel” on the cookies. Sing or read “Book of books, Invite them to “inwardly digest” our people's strength” (The

Hymnal 1982, 631). Daily devotions: Review and Going Forth Learn “Holy Bible, Book Divine” compare devotional guides for Gather the group for a closing (Baptist Hymnal, 139). daily study of the Bible, such as prayer and dismissal. Read together Listen to “Thy Word is a Lamp Forward Movement, The Bible the collect on page 236 of The Book of Unto My Feet” by Amy Grant. Reading Fellowship, and the Common Prayer (also on p. 3 of the ECY Session Leaflets. Are the Session Leaflet). Service Scriptures in the Session Leaf- Bible distribution: Find out lets related to a topic? Leader: Let us pray. about the American Bible Society, Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Gideon's International, or the Voices Scriptures to be written for our Society for the Promotion of Read and discuss the following learning: Grant us so to hear them, Christian Knowledge. Why is quotations (Session Leaflet, p. 2). read, mark, learn, and inwardly distributing Bibles so important? digest them, that we may embrace Explore ways that youth can sup- It is a belief in the Bible. . . which and ever hold fast the blessed hope port the efforts of these groups in has served me as the guide of of everlasting life, which you have the community or on a larger my moral and literary life. given us in our Savior Jesus Christ; scale. Johann Wolfgang van Goethe who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever Sharing I consider an intimate knowl- and ever. Amen In worship: Talk to the worship edge of the Bible an indispens- Proper 28 committee about using the collect able qualification of a well-edu- The Book of Common Prayer, p. 236 written for Proper 28 for the Ex- cated [person]. pressions activity during a wor- Robert A. Millikan Leader: Let us go forth into the ship service. world, rejoicing in the power of the Lectors: Find out if youth can In all my perplexities and dis- Spirit. serve as lectors at Sunday wor- tresses, the Bible has never People: Thanks be to God. ship. Explore the possibility of failed to give me light and training youth as lectors. strength. Look For Robert E. Lee Can youth name and locate the two Study types of lectionaries in The Book of Apocrypha: Find out the names Whatever achievement of my Common Prayer? Were they able to of the books in the Apocrypha. life there is to be commended, find the Bible readings for a particular What are these books called in the credit is due to my kind Sunday and week day? Can they find the “Articles of Religion” (BCP, p. parents in instilling into my mind central themes in the Scripture read- 868)? Look up the meaning of the an early love of the Scriptures. ings for a particular day? word “canonical.” Are the books in Daniel Webster the Apocrypha canonical? Illustrations: Visit the library and examine illustrations of illuminat- ed gospels from monastic com- munities. Why did these people spend so much time creating these manuscripts?

Advent & Lent: Seasons of Preparation The Episcopal Church Year

Objective This session focuses on the two Christ in contrast to the long hours seasons of the Church year that call of darkness at this time of year. Christians to prepare and wait. Youth Lent comes from the Anglo- will be able to describe the meaning Saxon word lencten referring to the and origin of Advent and Lent. They lengthening of days in springtime. It will identify ways to observe these is observed in the spring as a time seasons in community and individu- to prepare for rebirth. The season ally. was first named and observed in the fourth century as a period of SESSION LEAFLET Background for Leaders discipline and fasting for people The Commentary describes preparing to be baptized on Easter. Art—Jan Moffatt similarities and differences of the two Over time, it has grown into a seasons of Advent and Lent. Key season of penitence and fasting in Key Verse—[John the Baptist said,] ideas are preparation and penitence. making ready the observation of “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven For spiritual preparation stop and the passion, death and resurrection has come near.” listen to hear God's call for you. of Jesus. —Matthew 3:2 The arrival of Lent leads many Commentary people to devote more time to Youth Commentary and Prayer Advent and Lent are the seasons spiritual disciplines, the giving of of preparation centered on the com- alms, and curtailing earthly things Voices—Johann Wolfgang van ing of Christ into the world and the that separate us from God. It is Goethe, Martin Luther King, Jr., end of his life on earth at the cross. customary to refrain from celebrat- Jean Little Both are solemn seasons and are ing weddings during Lent. marked by a change in vestments Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, Daily Reflections and hangings of the color purple, forty days before Easter, and signifying penitence and royalty. (The concludes on Easter Day. The Words to Remember use of Sarum blue for Advent has length of the season reminds the become the tradition in a number of Church of the forty days Jesus Prayer—Lent Collect, Order for churches.) spend in the wilderness being Evening (BCP, p. 111) Advent begins the Christian year tempted. On Ash Wednesday, and comes from the Latin adventus, ashes are placed on the heads of meaning coming or arrival. These worshippers as an outward sign of four weeks are a time of waiting, repentance and mortality. Special love, and hope when the Church acts of discipline and self-denial prepares for the coming of the Mes- are encouraged throughout the siah, the Christ child born in Bethle- season. hem, and makes ready for his sec- Many traditions accompany ond coming at the end of time. Lent—ashes, the Stations of the The collects for the Sundays in Cross, foot washing, and prepara- Advent echo the Gospel readings tion for baptism. The final week of and focus on preparation, expecta- Lent is Holy Week, described by tion, and on the power of the light of Gertrud Mueller Nelson as “the very apex of the Church year.” It is a

where holy thoughts pass up and time to recall the traumatic events down, and fervent longings match in the final days of Jesus's ministry and wait thy coming. in somber and powerful ways Author unknown through special liturgies, music and readings from Scripture. Coming Together (Time: 10-15 min) LECTOR'S TEXT Personal Views Hang Resource Poster No. 4 at the In those days John the Baptist ap- Both Advent and Lent are times front of the room. When youth arrive, peared in the wilderness of Judea, of preparation and anticipation. We ask them to sit on the floor in a circle proclaiming, “Repent, for the king- should look backwards and for- and wait in silence. Suggest that they dom of heaven has come near.” This wards—to what has been, to what reflect on the poster that shows a road is the one of whom the prophet has been promised, and to what winding through the forest. Do not offer Isaiah spoke when he said, “The will come. We should take time to a snack at this time. voice of one crying out in the wilder- ready ourselves, letting go of those After everyone has gathered, ask ness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, things that cloud our vision or are the youth to find Matthew 3:1-6 in their make his paths straight.’” Now John counterproductive. Advent and Lent Bibles. Select a lector to lead the fol- wore clothing of camel's hair with a are seasons for making room, lowing prayer (Session Leaflet, p. 2). leather belt around his waist, and his cleaning out unnecessary baggage food was locusts and wild honey. of our worldly existence to make Lector: Let us pray. Then the people of Jerusalem and all space to let God in. Almighty God, Father of heaven and Judea were going out to him, and all What obstacles are in our way, earth, give us the inspiration to the region along the Jordan, and keeping us from a fuller relationship honor the holy times of your son, our they were baptized by him in the with God? Find time to slow down, savior, Jesus Christ, at his birth and river Jordan, confessing their sins. to be quiet, and to reflect. What death. Let us rejoice during Advent Matthew 3:1-6 concerns and obligations keep us while we prepare for the coming of from spiritual wholeness and Christ. Let us repent during Lent understanding? when we acknowledge that Jesus The emphasis on discipline and sacrificed himself so that we may TIPS ON THE TOPIC penitence challenges us to take live. Amen. Many youth equate Lent with something on rather than give Yuri, Grade 7 giving up something like candy something up. Play some quiet and Advent with shopping and music for meditation and then read Lector: A reading from the Gospel commercialism in general. Help and reflect on Matthew 3:1-6. Think of Matthew, chapter 3, verses 1 through the youth create a new image of not only of John the Baptist's 6. these seasons. message of repentance, but of his (Full text on p. 2) Be careful not to overemphasize ministry as well. What was he Lector: The Word of the Lord. the somberness of these sea- called to do, and how did he live People: Thanks be to God. sons. Preparation implies an out this call? What are you called to eagerness for the coming of do? What can you get rid of to Engaging (Time: 15-20 min) something or someone special. make more room for God? In order After the Scripture reading, pass out Discussion Starter: How do you to hear God's call, we must first a different vegetable to every other prepare your home for a special stop and listen. youth. In the middle of the circle place a visitor? How could you do the Let not our souls be busy inns large empty bowl, a number of bowls same things spiritually? that have no room for thee and half-filled with water, utensils, some thine, but quiet homes of prayer paper bags, salt, pepper, oil and vine- and praise, where thou mayest gar. Invite the youth to work in pairs, find fit company, where the maintaining silence and taking care to needful cares of life are wisely prepare their ingredient for a salad. ordered and put away, and wide sweet spaces kept for thee,

Offer no further explanation, but are in keeping with the themes observe what they do and how they and Scripture of the season. work together. Use The Book of Common After they have finished preparing Prayer for ideas for collects and the vegetables, ask them to put the Scriptures readings. ingredients in the large bowl to make a salad. Ask a volunteer to toss the Banner: Create a banner out of vegetables with oil and vinegar. squares of cloth in shades of the Give each pair a word that is con- seasonal colors (purple and nected to the themes of the seasons, blue). Challenge them to make a such as prepare, waiting, quiet, design that reflects both prepa- WEAVINGS prayer, fasting, reconciliation, ration and penitence. Carry the Schedule this session before or forgiveness, self-denial, repentance, banner in the procession during during the seasons of Advent or and others. Ask each pair to write a Advent or Lent. Lent. brief prayer incorporating their word. Posters: Break up into small Advent is full of rich traditions from Begin a group prayer, asking each groups and design posters the Jesse tree, to the empty creche pair to share their verse when they advertising Christmas or Easter, and the Festival of Lessons and feel ready. After the prayer, serve the illustrating how people can Carols. The Advent wreath, which is salad. prepare during the season of made of evergreens, is decorated Reflect on the activity by asking Advent or Lent. Use Resource with four candles—three purple and the youth what they know about Poster No. 4 for ideas. one rose one for the third Sunday of Advent and Lent. Use Resource Advent—to signify that the Light of Poster No. 3 to show them where Games Christ is coming. On each of the four these seasons fit in the Church year. Journey: Explain that the youth Sundays of Advent a candle is lit. Share information from the Com- are going on a spiritual journey. Sometimes a white candle is placed mentary. Ask them to think about the in the center and lit on Christmas What steps did we take to prepare items they will need to pack for Eve. our salad? this journey. Stand in a circle, In addition to penitence, Lent focus- How did making a salad reflect and let one person begin “pack- es on the meaning and importance the meaning of the seasons of ing” by saying, “I'm going on a of baptism, both of which are em- Advent and Lent? journey, and I'm taking phasized in the lectionary. Other How do both of these seasons (prayer, meditation, music, etc).” important themes for the season are end? How did we end our activi- The next person makes the reconciliation, forgiveness, self- ty? same statement, but adds an denial and discipleship. Other reli- item. The last person must gions throughout the world, such as Optional Activities include every item mentioned, in Islam and Judaism, have similar The following activities offer the correct order. times of reflection and penitence. groups a wide range of choices. The need to prepare and seek Consider the interests and strengths Media forgiveness seems to be universal to of youth and leaders and select Today's youth live in a media- all people. those activity options that seem best rich culture that the Church cannot suited to local time and talents. ignore. However, congregational Remember no one can do every- norms about appropriate experi- thing! ences vary and need to be re- RESOURCE POSTER spected. When choosing media Church Calendar (No. 3) activities consider local sentiments Taking New Paths (No. 4) Expressions and prevailing laws covering public Calendars: Make your own Ad- performances of copyrighted vent or Lent calendars with materials. devotionals for each day of the Video: Watch Babette's Feast in season. Include appropriate which the main character puts passages and quotes as well as great care and efforts into suggestions of things to do that

preparing an incredible celebra- Sharing When I opened my eyes this morn- tion. Why does she do this? Before Advent: Collect greens ing, Print: Read an Advent or Lenten and invite others to join you in The day belonged to me. daily devotional. Ask each young making Advent wreaths. Or The sky was mine and the sun, person to write a brief devotion make Advent wreaths for other And my feet got up dancing. that reflects a personal view. Sunday School classes. The marmalade was mine and the Compile the writings into a devo- Jesse Tree: Sponsor a Jesse squares of the sidewalk tional guide for the group. Tree service or help younger And all the birds in the trees. children make Jesse Tree orna- So I stood and I considered Music ments. Stopping the world right there, Music is important for today's For Lent: The Tuesday before Making today go on forever. youth and can be an integral part of Lent is Shrove Tuesday, a last But I decided not to. youth experience in the context of celebration before Lent. Investi- I let the world spin on and I went to Bible and Church activities. The gate customs and traditions for school. music suggestions offered here the day. Plan a Shrove Tuesday I almost did it, but then, I said to reflect a broad variety of possibilities event. myself, from simple listening to hearty music “Who knows what you might be making. Seek out musicians within Study missing tomorrow?” youth, church, and community Journal: Keep a journal for Jean Little groups to sing and play along. Advent or Lent to record your Sing or read “O Come, O Come thoughts about preparation and Going Forth Emmanuel” (The Hymnal 1982, turning back to God. Gather the group for a closing 56). Silence: Locate places in The prayer and dismissal. Read together Sing together “Were You There?” Book of Common Prayer rubrics the prayer on page 111 of The Book of (Lift Every Voice and Sing II, 37). that call for silence. Think about Common Prayer (also on p. 3 of the Listen to “Prepare Ye the Way of how people might use these Session Leaflet). the Lord” from the musical God- opportunities for silence. Why spell or “Sounds of Silence” by are we uncomfortable being Leader: Let us pray. Simon and Garfunkel. silent as a group? Almighty and most merciful God, kindle within us the fire of love, that Service Voices by its cleansing flame we may be Help box: Bring in a decorated Read and discuss the following purged of all our sins and made box. Ask youth to fill it with ideas quotations (Session Leaflet, p. 2). worthy to worship you in spirit and in of thoughtful services and acts truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord. they can perform in the parish, at A person should hear a little Amen. home, or in the community. For music, read a little poetry and Lent Collect, Order for Evening The Book of Common Prayer, p. 111 example: baby-sitting for free, see a fine picture every day in

escorting an older parishioner to order that worldly cares may not Leader: Let us go forth into the church, reading to a younger obliterate the sense of the world, rejoicing in the power of the sibling, or cleaning up trash on beautiful that God has implanted Spirit. the grounds. Encourage youth to in the human soul. People: Thanks be to God. pick an idea and carry it out Johann Wolfgang van Goethe

during the next week. After com- pleting the service, write a sen- Forgiveness is a catalyst creat- Look For tence or two about doing the ing the atmosphere necessary Are youth able to describe the “good” deed. Hang your com- for a fresh start and a new meaning and origin of Advent and ments on a Giving Tree or other beginning. It is the lifting of a Lent? Can they identify ways to ob- special place. burden or the canceling of a serve these seasons in community? debt. Are youth able to list ways they can Martin Luther King, Jr. celebrate Advent and Lent individually?

Fasting: Days of Self Denial The Episcopal Church Year

Objective This session focuses on the dis- the seasons of Lent. Other Chris- cipline of fasting and prayer. Youth tian churches engage in additional will be able to describe fasting in periods of fasting including the relation to the Church. They will season of Advent. In the Church's name the two major fast days and early centuries, the Lenten fast was locate other appropriate days for always associated with Easter, but fasting in The Book of Common originally lasted for only two days. Prayer. By the fourth century two days had been stretched into forty in most Background for Leaders places. The Commentary relates the While the Roman Catholic SESSION LEAFLET history of fasting and its use in the Church prescribes exactly how, Church. Key concepts are fasting when, and why to fast, the Episco- Art—Jan Moffatt and the Benedictine rule. For spiritu- pal Church gives no specific direc- al preparation, be aware of the dis- tions. The Episcopal calendar Key Verse—Then Jesus told his tractions of life that draw you from appoints two days for fasting: Ash disciples, “If any want to become my God. Wednesday and Good Friday. Both followers, let them deny themselves days fall in Lent, and fasting is not and take up their cross and follow Commentary required. me.” Fasting is primarily a penitential Fasting is always accompanied —Matthew 16:24 practice intended to strengthen the by prayer as a way to nourish the spiritual life by diminishing the at- spirit. Fasting is to be done in Youth Commentary and Prayer traction to food or pleasure. The community and under spiritual intended result is the removal of any direction, reflecting the Benediction Voices—Fulton J. Sheen, Jerome, sinful desires that can draw people rule that reflects Anglican devotion- Thomas Merton, Etty Hillesum away from the love of God, an al and liturgical life. openness to God's call, and a re- Today people fast for many Daily Reflections newed commitment to God. Absti- reasons—political, religious, and nence from food was practiced even pathological. Therefore, it is Words to Remember among the ancient Jews during times important to discern what makes of national and personal calamity to fasting particularly Christian. Alex- Prayer—Ash Wednesday (BCP, p. discipline the soul and make the ander Schmemaman, an Eastern 217) person's voice heard in heaven (II Orthodox theologian, suggests an Samuel 12 and Joel 1:14). answer rooted in Genesis. The Old Jesus, John the Baptist, and Testament begins with “the break- Jesus's disciples practiced fasting, ing of the fast” by Adam when he although it appears the disciples did ate the forbidden fruit. Christ came so only after Jesus's death. The early as the new “Adam” who begins his Christians also practiced regular ministry with fasting during his fasting, although the New Testament wilderness temptation. Adam was does not require it, and the practice tempted and ate; Christ was appears to be more of a tradition tempted and said no. In Adam hu- Anglicans generally fast during mankind dies; in Christ all are made alive.

Spirit, be honor and glory, now and The passage from Matthew call- for ever. Amen. ing for the “denial of self” does not Third Sunday of Advent mean merely giving up something The Book of Common Prayer, p. 212 optional. The attitudes, posses- sions, and behaviors that prevent Coming Together people from following God actually (Time: 10-15 min) become the gods that rule in their As youth arrive, hand each person lives. Through fasting and prayer, an index card and a pen or pencil. Tell the community helps each person them to imagine that they have only a set aside gods to return to the one, few minutes to gather everything that is LECTOR'S TEXT true God. valuable to them before they must flee The Jesus told his disciples, “If any for safety. Ask them to write down want to become my followers, let Personal Views everything they would take. After a few them deny themselves and take up T. S. Eliot suggests that “in order minutes gather the cards even if youth their cross and follow me. For those to possess what you do not have not completed their lists. who want to save their life will lose it, possess, you must go by way of After everyone has gathered, ask and those who lose their life for my dispossession.” God desires to fill the youth to find Matthew 16:24-26 in sake will find it. For what will it profit us completely with his presence. their Bibles. Select a lector to lead the them if they gain the whole world but Often we must let go of what we following prayer (Session Leaflet, p. 2). forfeit their life? Or what will they are clutching so tightly in order to give in return for their life? have hands free to receive. What Lector: Let us pray. Matthew 16:24-26 are you holding onto in your own Dear Lord, we ask that you guide us life that prevents you from embrac- in our time of fasting. Give to us the ing what God longs to give you? Is strength to keep on going, as well as it a hope, an expectation, a dream, the knowledge that you will see our attempts to become closer to you. TIPS ON THE TOPIC an attitude? Amen. Anorexia and bulimia, forms of Fasting is one way to help us Chapin, Grade 7 self starvation, are life threatening turn lose of the things that keep us

diseases which affect millions of from God. Try fasting and prayer Lector: A reading from the Gospel young women and girls. Em- for a short period to help you dis- of Matthew, chapter 16, verses 24 phasize the importance of fasting cern the “gods” that hold sway in through 26. with prayer and in a community your life. In a culture of addiction (Full text on p. 2) setting. Fasting is never to be fueled by instant gratification, prac- Lector: The Word of the Lord. used as a diet. tice letting go of outside demands People: Thanks be to God. In discussing or planning a group in favor of the still small voice of

fast, be aware of special health God. concerns such as diabetes and At communion, look at your out- Engaging (Time: 15-20 min) hypoglycemia among your group. stretched hands as you take the Pass the cards written in the Remember that fasting does not host. Do you reach toward God Coming Together activity back out to have to be abstaining from food. with your whole self, are you the group, making sure that no one has Discussion Starter: What is one holding something back? Consider his or her own card. Ask the youth to thing that you could give up that asking other, including the youth, to mark with a check or highlighter pen would make you a better friend, a join you in a period of fasting, the items on the cards that are better student, a better athlete, or prayer, and reflection. essential for life. On a piece of a better Christian? Stir up your power, O Lord, and newsprint list the “essential” and “non- with great might come among essential” items as the youth report us; and, because we are sorely them. Discuss the differences between hindered by our sins, let your want and need. bountiful grace and mercy Are some of the valuables you listed speedily help and deliver us; on your card on the “non-essential” through Jesus Christ our Lord, list? Do you disagree? Why? to whom, with you and the Holy

What do you really “need” to live? pictures in the basket, and look Which of our “valuables” keep us at the kinds of foods and quali- from doing other things? ties represented. How can fast- If you lost most of the “valuables” ing help us recognize the things on your list, what would your life that are essential? be like? Would you die, or just live differently? Games Fasting is a way to help us redis- Obstacles: Create and “obsta- cover the things in life that are most cle” course that tests the youth's important. Pass out black cards and senses. Explain that not eating WEAVINGS pens and ask the youth to list one during fasting often helps people Schedule this session before a thing—music, food, television, for use their other senses to be penitential season or fast day, such example—that keeps them from aware of God's presence. as Ash Wednesday or Good Friday. being a better person. Agree as a Suggested stations for the Many things in our busy lives keep group to give up these things and to course include: putting a simple us from a closer relationship with pray for each other for a week. puzzle together wearing a blind- God. Although we often associate fold; telling the difference be- fasting with Lent, Advent is also a Optional Activities tween pain yogurt and sour penitential season focusing on the The following activities offer cream while holding your nose; coming of Christ into the world. groups a wide range of choices. or describing whether a piece of Picture yourself holding the infant Consider the interests and strengths music is classical or rock while Jesus. What do you need to put of youth and leaders and select wearing ear plugs. Talk about down in order to embrace the Christ those activity options that seem best how they felt using other sens- child? A telephone receiver? A suited to local time and talents. es. How does fasting help us computer mouse? A golf club? Give Remember no one can do every- feel or understand new things up something this week in your life thing! about ourselves? that keeps you from God. Fasting is not unique to our faith or Expressions Media our culture. Muslims, for example, Journaling: Fasting can occur at Today's youth live in a media- fast during the season of Ramadam, any time and does not have to rich culture that the Church cannot and Jews often fast on the Sabbath involve food. Ask the youth to ignore. However, congregational or high holy days. People all over think about a typical day and plan norms about appropriate experi- the world use fasting to reconnect to an “action fast.” To help them ences vary and need to be re- their spiritual roots. The need to focus on the task, encourage spected. When choosing media focus thoughts by denying the them to look at Resource Poster activities consider local sentiments senses is a universal truth found No. 4, displayed somewhere in and prevailing laws covering public throughout history in almost every the room. Encourage them to use performances of copyrighted mate- culture. concrete examples, such as, I will rial. not make fun of “ ” while he or Video: Watch the scene from she stands by the lockers; I will Jesus of Nazareth where Simon choose a book to read instead of of Cyrene literally carries RESOURCE POSTER an hour of MTV today, or I will buy Jesus's cross. What did he have Taking New Paths (No. 4) a can of soup for the food bank to give up to take on the cross? instead of a candy bar. Print: Cut out pictures of food Cornucopia: Bring a large basket from magazines. Separate them and paper, crayons, paint or into two piles: one for food for markers. Ask youth to identify one survival, and the other, food for food item they think is essential fun. Which pile has more pic- and draw a picture of it. On the tures? Do outside forces influ- back of the picture, ask them to ence our thinking about what is write down one quality they think essential? How can fasting less- is essential, such as forgiveness, en the influence of outside forc- love, or compassion. Gather the es?

Music Study Going Forth Music is important for today's Fast days: Find out more about Gather the group for a closing youth and can be an integral part of the two fast days of the Church, prayer and dismissal. Read together youth experience in the context of Ash Wednesday and Good the prayer on page 217 of The Book of Bible and Church activities. The Friday, in The Book of Common Common Prayer (also on p. 3 of the music suggestions offered here Prayer. Where else is fasting Session Leaflet). reflect a broad variety of possibilities mentioned in the Prayer Book? from simple listening to hearty music Concordance: Look up fast and Leader: Let us pray. making. Seek out musicians within fasting in a concordance. Read Almighty and everlasting God, you youth, church, and community some of the references in the hate nothing you have made and groups to sing and play along. Bible. Does the Bible say God forgive the sins of all who are peni- Read or sing “Lord Jesus, think expects us to fast? Why are tent: Create and make in us new on me” (The Hymnal 1982, 641). people fasting in the references and contrite hearts, that we, worthily Sing “O How He Loves You and you read? lamenting our sins and acknowledg- Me” (Lift Every Voice and Sing II, ing our wretchedness, may obtain of 35). Voices you, the God of all mercy, perfect Learn and sing “One Tin Soldier” Read and discuss the following remission and forgiveness; through (The Tune Book , p.104). quotations (Session Leaflet, p. 2). Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, Service Self discipline never means one God, for ever and ever. Amen. Gleaning: Organize a parish-wide giving up anything, for giving up Ash Wednesday gleaning project. Gleaning was is a loss. Our Lord did not ask The Book of Common Prayer, p. 217 practiced as a form of caring for us to give up the things of earth, the poor among the Hebrew but to exchange them for better Leader: Let us go forth into the people. Farmers left behind a things. world, rejoicing in the power of the portion of their crop that the poor Fulton J. Sheen Spirit. could harvest without shame. People: Thanks be to God. Make arrangements to go into a When the stomach is full, it is local field where food is grown easy to talk of fasting. Look For and pick up what remains for Jerome Are youth able to describe fasting in distribution to a local food bank, relation to the Church? Can they name shelter or pantry. It would be more sincere as well the differences between needs and as more religious to eat a full desires? Can they name the two major Sharing dinner in a spirit of gratitude fast days of the Church? Are they able Youth fast: Plan an organized than to make some picayune to locate other days for fasting? fast for all the youth in the church. sacrifice of part of it, with the Gather at the church to eat a feeling that one is suffering simple dinner, and stay together martyrdom. overnight. Fast for breakfast and Thomas Merton lunch, then conclude with a meal. Ask others in the congregation to There is a really deep well join the fast at home, using the inside me. And in it dwells God. time normally spent preparing and Sometimes I am there too. But eating a meal in prayer or working more often stones and grit block at a local food pantry. the well, and God is buried beneath. Then God must be dug out again. Etty Hillesum

Celebration: The Feasts The Episcopal Church Year

Objective The focus of this session is the as the Great High Priest (Hebrews major feast days of the Church. 4:14) who “will come again in glory Youth will be able to name the seven to judge the living and the dead” Principal Feasts of the Church and (BCP, p. 359). identify the significance of each of Fifty days after Easter the the annual celebrations. Church gathers to celebrate the Feast of Pentecost as recorded in Background for Leaders Acts 2:1-13. The liturgical color for The Commentary provides a brief the day is red to symbolize the description of each of the seven tongues of flame that descended Principal Feasts of the Church. Key above the heads of Jesus's follow- SESSION LEAFLET terms are Ascension, Pentecost, ers as they received the Holy Spirit. Incarnation, and Epiphany. For spiri- Jesus had promised this “holy Art—Collage tual preparation, contrast the ways comforter” in John 14:16-17. you celebrate important days in your One of the deepest mysteries of Key Verse—Let them praise the life and how the Church celebrates Christian faith is remembered on name of the Lord, for his name important days through the feasts. Trinity Sunday, one week follow- alone is exalted; his glory is above ing Pentecost. On this day the earth and heaven. Commentary Church celebrates God's revealed —Psalm 148:13 The Episcopal Church calendar is identity as father, Son, and Holy filled with special dates for celebra- Spirit. Christians understand God Youth Commentary and Prayer tions called “feasts.” The Book of uniquely as “one God, one Lord, in Common Prayer lists seven Principal Trinity of Persons and in Unity of Voices—Susan Coolidge, Virgil, Feasts to celebrate and proclaim Being” (BCP, p. 380). Elizabeth Barrett Browning special events. These Principal The four feasts described above Feasts are Easter Day, Ascension are moveable. That is, they are Daily Reflections Day, The Day of Pentecost, Trinity pinned to the ancient lunar Sunday, All Saints Day, Christmas calendar, and their dates shift each Words to Remember Day, and The Epiphany. year. The remaining three feasts On Easter Day the Church bears have fixed dates. Prayer—The Epiphany (BCP, p. witness to the resurrection of Christ On November 1 Christians use 214) and proclaims that three days after special hymns and prayers to his crucifixion, Jesus “rose again in celebrate All Saints Day. The accordance with the Scriptures” liturgy for the day reminds the (BCP, p. 358). Churches are illu- Church of the communion of saints mined by the light of the Paschal and the ministry of the faithful down candle and ring once more with through the ages. On this occasion acclamations of “Alleluia!” the Church recognizes the Forty days later, the Church re- sainthood of all believers. calls Jesus's ascension into heaven Christmas Day is another feast and the return to his heavenly throne with a fixed date. A specific cele- on Ascension Day, a festival that bration of Christmas was not evolved in the fourth century. On this known in the Church until about occasion the Church proclaims 200 C.E. The date December 25 Jesus has been used since the fourth century as a

Almighty and everlasting God, you have given to us your time for Christians to remember the servants grace, by the confession of birth of Jesus Christ, God made a true faith, to acknowledge the flesh, often called the “Incarnation.” glory of the eternal Trinity, and in the The Feast of the Epiphany is power of your divine Majesty to marked on January 6 to recall the worship the Unity: Keep us steadfast journey of the Magi to Bethlehem to in this faith and worship, and bring worship and present gifts to the us at last to see you in your one and LECTOR'S TEXT Christ child (Matthew 2:1-12). The eternal glory, O Father; who with the Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from Church also celebrates the spread Son and the Holy Spirit live and the heavens; praise him in the of the gospel to all people as a reign, one God, for ever and ever. heights! Praise him, all his angels; “light to the nations” (Isaiah 42:6). Amen. praise him, all his host! Praise him, Trinity Sunday The Book of Common Prayer, p. 228 sun and moon; praise him, all you Personal Views shining stars! Praise him, you high- What are your recollections of est heavens, and you waters above Thanksgiving, birthdays or special Coming Together the heavens! . . . Kings of the earth occasions? Do you remember the (Time: 10-15 min) and all peoples, princes and all rulers sense of festival and excitement Decorate the room for a party with of the earth! Young men and women that surrounded these important bright colors, ribbons, balloons, snacks, alike, old and young together! Let times in your life? and festive music. Hang Resource them praise the name of the Lord, for For the early Church, this sense Poster No. 5 somewhere in the room. If his name alone is exalted; his glory of festival and excitement possible bring a pinata filled with is above earth and heaven. He has surrounded the Eucharist at weekly scripture verses or trinkets or bring raised up a horn for his people, worship and the seven Principal fortune cookies with scripture verses praise for all his faithful, for the Feasts now celebrated on the inside. Allow time for everyone to share people of Israel who are close to Church calendar. In many places in the celebration before gathering. him. Praise the Lord! today, especially in the Southwest After everyone has gathered, ask Psalm 148:1-4, 11-14 or Central America, the liturgical the youth to find Psalm 148:1-4, 11-14 celebration of the Church is set in in their Bibles. Select a lector to lead the wider context of fiesta. the following prayer (Session Leaflet, p. Although Christmas and Easter 2). are surrounded by secular cele- Lector: Let us pray. TIPS ON THE TOPIC brations, the other Principal Feasts Dear Father— Youth may not know the mean- of the Church usually receive little Let us keep praising you until the ings of the words used for the fanfare outside the Church. How day we die. Let us praise you wher- feast days or the events they would your church celebrate the ever we are and whatever the time describe. Be sure to explain the feast days as a fiesta? What would of day. No matter who we are— definitions before using words you like to do that you don't do teens or kings—help us to praise such as “Incarnation” or now? your name. In your heavenly name, “Epiphany.” The feast days were established Amen. If you have youth in your group to help Christians better under- Sara, Grade 7 from other cultures, invite them to stand their faith. Just as the cele-

share stories about holidays they bration of the Eucharist evokes the Lector: A reading from Psalms, have observed or have heard memory of Christ's death and chapter 148, verses 1 through 4 and 11 about. resurrection, the Feasts each through 14. Discussion Starter: Which of the embody a special remembrance. (Full text on p. 2) seven Principal Feast days is your During this next year as you Lector: The Word of the Lord. favorite? Why? celebrate the various feast days, People: Thanks be to God. pay special attention to the

Scriptures and the liturgy. Do these feast days help to strengthen your faith?

Engaging (Time: 15-20 min) Banners: Make banners for Bring in objects or pictures that each of the seven Principal suggest the themes of the Principal Feasts of the Church. Carry Feasts of the Church year. For ex them in procession during the ample, Easter: a butterfly; Ascension: appropriate worship services or a balloon rising; Pentecost: a dove, use them to decorate an audito- fire, or wind; Trinity: a shamrock, rium or entryway. triangle, or other three-sided item; All Post it: Create a colorful bulletin Saints: a saint; Christmas: a manger; board display of the seven Epiphany: a star or gifts. Principal Feasts. Or make a At the front of the room make a large calendar that includes the WEAVINGS list of the seven Principle Feast Days seven feasts and other impor- This session could be scheduled and a second list of dates. Divide tant dates for your church. before a Principal Feast Day or at into pairs, and give each group paper the beginning of the year. Calendars and pencil. Ask them to match the Games and banners made for Expressions object with the appropriate feast day Ask me: Divide the youth into could then be used throughout the and the date. pairs. Assign one person as the year. Pass out The Book of Common clue giver, and the other as the The Church initiated feast days to Prayer to each pair and ask them to answer giver. Two pairs will play celebrate with joy special events in check their answers by reading at a time. Give the name of one the life of Christ and the Church. about the feast day. Invite the groups of the seven Principal Feasts to During Old Testament times, the to share their answers and the the two clue givers. They will people celebrated harvest times, the reasons they used. take turns giving out clues until dedications of temples, military What do you know about these the correct feast is given. The victories, as well as family events feast days? pair that comes up with the such as marriages. While the New How do our observances of these correct answer will play another Testament does not specifically feast days compare with cele- round with the next pair. Use the mention feast days, traditions used brations we had today? What is feasts more than once if in celebrations today grew out of similar or different? necessary; however, stipulate practices in the early Church. How would you add more excite- that clues can only be used Churches today are recapturing the ment or festivity to a Feast Day? once! spirit of celebration and festivity through new forms of worship, the Optional Activities Media use of dance, and a wide range of The following activities offer Today's youth live in a media- music. To celebrate feast days, groups a wide range of choices. rich culture that the Church cannot some churches are using special Consider the interests and strengths ignore. However, congregational instruments to make music more of youth and leaders and select norms about appropriate experi- joyful. Others change normal rou- those activity options that seem best ences vary and need to be tines, such as having the congrega- suited to local time and talents. respected. When choosing media tion process as a group into the Remember no one can do every- activities consider local sentiments church. What does your church do thing! and prevailing laws covering public differently on feast days? performances of copyrighted mate- Expressions rial. Festival tree: Create a “festival Video: Watch the movie A tree” using a branch from a tree. Christmas Story. Did the family's Come up with at least one symbol celebration and the youth's wish RESOURCE POSTER for each of the seven Principal remind you of a Christmas you Celebrate! (No. 5) Feasts—use the objects from the have known? Engaging activity to get started. Print: Look through newspapers Make ornaments and decorations and magazines for different based on each of the feasts. ways people celebrate. How many of these could you use at church or a worship service?

Music clergy for the seven Principal Going Forth Music is important for today's Feast Days. A representative Gather the group for a closing youth and can be an integral part of from the Altar Guild could also prayer and dismissal. Read together youth experience in the context of demonstrate the hangings used the prayer on page 214 of The Book of Bible and Church activities. The for the feast days. Find out what Common Prayer (also on p. 3 of the music suggestions offered here the colors represent. Session Leaflet). reflect a broad variety of possibilities In the world: Learn more about from simple listening to hearty music feasts and festivals in other Leader: Let us pray. making. Seek out musicians within countries such as “Posadas” in O God, by the leading of a star you youth, church, and community Central America, or “The Day of manifested your only Son to the groups to sing and play along. the Kings” in France. (Refer to peoples of the earth: Lead us, who Sing or read “This is the hour of Holidays, Festivals, and Cele- know you now by faith, to your banquet and of song” (The Hym- brations of the World Dictionary presence, where we may see your nal 1982, 316). What does the or Sharing Our Biblical Story.) glory face to face; through Jesus banquet refer to? Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns Learn “Now the Feast” (Gather, Voices with you and the Holy Spirit, one GIA Publications, Inc., 537). Read and discuss the following God, now and for ever. Amen. Listen to “Celebrate” by Kool and quotations (Session Leaflet, p. 2). The Epiphany the Gang or “Please Celebrate The Book of Common Prayer, p. 214 Me Home” by Kenny Loggins. We ring the bells and we raise the strain, Leader: Let us go forth into the Service We hang up garlands every- world, rejoicing in the power of the Celebrate: Plan a party around where, Spirit. one of the feast days for a child- And bid the taper twinkle fair, People: Thanks be to God. care center for under privileged And feast and frolic—and then children or for a senior center. we go Look For Plan games that either group Back to the same old lives again Can the youth name the seven would enjoy and crafts they could Susan Coolidge Principal Feasts of the church? Can make. Be sure that snacks are they identify the significance of each appropriate for the group you Endure, and keep yourselves for feast? Are they able to identify ways select. days of happiness. that celebrations enrich life in the Virgil Church? Sharing Plan a meal or snack for your I praise Thee while my days go church or a group in the church on; for one of the feast days. For I love Thee while my days go example, make foods that rise for on: Ascension Day. Share with the Through dark and dearth, group what you have learned through fire and frost, about that feast day. With emptied arms and treasure lost, Study I thank Thee while my days go Colors: Ask someone in your on. church to show the group the Elizabeth Barrett Browning different vestments worn by the

Christmas & Easter: Celebrating the Seasons The Episcopal Church Year

Objective The focus of this session is the seasons that follow the feast days of preaching of the gospel to the Christmas and Easter. Youth will be Jews, then among the Gentiles. able to identify the seasons of The seasons of the year are a Christmas and Easter as the days reminder that the Christian faith following the feast days. They will list has brought together all people, in ways the seasons can be celebrated. which “there is no longer Jew and Greek, there is no longer male and Background for Leaders female; for all of you are one in The Commentary is about the Christ Jesus.” (Galations 3:28) seasons of Christmas and Easter Easter is the principal feast day that follow penitential periods of the in the Church calendar. Christ died Church year. Key ideas are Incar- on the cross for the sins of all so SESSION LEAFLET nation, Baptism, and Resurrection. that each person might have new For spiritual preparation, reflect on life. Easter comes after a long Art—Jan Moffatt the scripture passage and following season of soulful preparation. the example set by Jesus Christ. Eastertide lasts from Easter Sun- Key Verse—. . . and every tongue day to Pentecost and is, in es- should confess that Jesus Christ is Commentary sence, an intense extension of the Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Christmas and Easter are both Passover feast. In the fourth and —Philippians 2:11 seasons that focus most closely on fifth centuries when most baptisms the festival days, the powerful cele- occurred on Easter, Easter week Youth Commentary and Prayer brations that begin these seasons. was a time of instruction about The miraculous events which mark Christian life and ways for the Voices—Robert Smith, C. S. Lewis, each season are the foundation of newly baptized. Malcolm Boyd, Athanasius the Christian faith that allows all Gospel readings during Easter people to accept their humanity focus on Christ's post-Resurrection Daily Reflections openly, but with enough humility to appearances to his followers. avoid complacency. These are important examples of Words to Remember The season of Christmas cele- how Christ, though transformed, is brates the Incarnation of Christ, still connected with us through his Prayer—Collect for the Fourth Sun- when the Son of God became flesh, human form and yet one with God day of Easter (BCP, p. 225) in the 12 days from Christmas Day to through his miraculous ascension. the Epiphany. The dates of this The joy of the season is echoed in season, unlike Easter, are fixed. Alleluia, a word that is ever-present Christmas owes its origin to popular in Easter worship and hymns. Gentile feasts that were supplanted by the Church. These feasts are Personal Views based on the solar year, unlike The mere mention of Christmas Passover and Easter that depend on and Easter should inspire awe and the lunar calendar. wonderment. The stories of the The Christian year, therefore, birth and resurrection of Christ are parallels the actual history of the familiar to many people. What else spread of Christianity, first in the do we need to know about these stories? What more should we

expect of ourselves? How can we Coming Together be year-round Christians celebrat- (Time: 10-15 min) ing the coming of Christ and his Place symbols or words connected ultimate resurrection from the dead to the religious observations of Easter in our lives? and Christmas around the room. On Look closely at the passage one wall, place a big sheet of paper from Paul's Letter to the Philippians with markers or crayons nearby. As the 2: 5-11. If we are to walk with Christ youth arrive, ask them to write down and follow his example, we must whatever comes to mind when they LECTOR'S TEXT first understand the mind of Christ. look at each symbol or read each word. Let the same mind be in you that Paul did not condemn the wealth After everyone has gathered, ask was in Christ Jesus, who, though he and affluence of the Philippians, the youth to find Philippians 2:5-11 in was in the form of God, did not but focused on how Christ's life and their Bibles. Select a lector to lead the regard equality with God as some- message provided the passion following prayer (Session Leaflet, p. 2). thing to be exploited, but emptied Paul felt in his own life. Does himself, taking the form of a slave, Christ's message give “passion” to Lector: Let us pray. being born in human likeness. And your life? God Almighty, please help us to see being found in human form, he hum- The scripture passage begins the true meaning of Christmas and bled himself and became obedient to with the words, “Let the same mind Easter, and help us to understand the point of death—even death on a be in you that was in Christ Jesus. . why they are important to the cross. Therefore God also highly .” Such an act requires Church year. Help us to avoid get- exalted him and gave him the name understanding both ourselves and ting caught up in all of the gifts that is above every name, so that at Christ. The passage goes on to during the holidays. Please help us the name of Jesus every knee articulate some of the fundamental to follow the example of Jesus and should bend, in heaven and on earth tenets of our faith. Much of it is to see Him in everyone. Thank you and under the earth, and every difficult to comprehend from a for all of the wonderful gifts you have tongue should confess that Jesus human, finite perspective, and even given to us and especially for Jesus, Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the harder to internalize. your Son. We ask this through Christ Father. We all struggle with our faith our Lord. Amen. Philippians 2:5-11 with many questions and doubt. Kate, Grade 7 The abstract questions are particularly difficult. How can we make our Lector: A reading from the Letter to faith concrete enough to be com- the Philippians, chapter 2, verses 5 TIPS ON THE TOPIC prehensible, yet abstract enough to through 11. Most younger youth are not ready remain holy? The mystery of faith is (Full text on p. 2) developmentally to understand a wonderful dilemma. How can you Lector: The Word of the Lord. abstract ideas. They can, live into the mysteries of the People: Thanks be to God. however, discuss the mystery of Christian faith? faith and understand that all Engaging (Time: 15-20 min) questions may not have answers. Almighty God, whose beloved Display Resource Poster No. 5 of Emphasize the religious aspects Son willingly endured the agony the Fireworks. Underneath the poster rather than the secular celebra- and shame of the cross for our write “The 12 Days of Christmas” and tions of these seasons. Help the redemption: Give us courage to “The 50 Days of Easter.” Divide into youth channel the joy and antici- take up the cross and follow two groups and challenge the first pation they feel toward the birth him; who lives and reigns with group of youth to list 12 ways to and Resurrection of Christ. you and the Holy Spirit, one celebrate the season of Christmas. The Discussion Starter: What is the God, now and for ever. Amen. second group will describe 50 ways to Collect of the Holy Cross first thing you think of when you celebrate the season of Easter. The Book of Common Prayer, p. 252 hear the words Christmas and Remind them that they cannot use Easter? Why? “traditional” events that occur of the Feast days themselves, but they can design new

Episcopal Curriculum for Youth—The Episcopal Church Year: Session 7 Copyright © 1996 Virginia Theological Seminary 43 ways to celebrate the seasons. done on each of the twelve days After a short period of time, re- of Christmas to signify this time verse the task, asking the first group in our lives? to list Easter season celebrations Alleluia!: Design a colorful mes- and the second group to list Christ- sage that uses the word mas seasons celebrations. (Sugges- “Alleluia” to be hung somewhere tions: always singing hymns that in the church. Find something contain the word “Alleluia” or not from The Book of Common using the confession during the 50 Prayer or create your own mes- days of Easter and giving gifts to sage about the joy of the friends over the twelve days of season. WEAVINGS Christmas.) Schedule this session before or Discuss the symbols and the Games during the seasons of Christmas or words youth wrote earlier and the Pick-up sticks: The familiar Easter. meanings of the seasons that extend carol, “Good King Wenselas” The dictionary defines incarnation beyond the feast days. Show them was written for St. Stephen's as the assumption of human form or the placement of the seasons in the Day, December 26. In the lyrics, nature by a divine being, such as Church year (Resource Poster, No. the king watches a poor man the incarnation of God in Christ. 1). Ask them to find out how long gathering wood. Scatter a box of While the term does not appear in each season is from The Book of toothpicks in the center of the the New Testament, the doctrine is Common Prayer. room. Give the youth drinking throughout the gospels, especially in What do we first think about when straws and ask them to gather John. we are about to celebrate these “wood” using only the straw and Many of the customs and commer- seasons? their breath to neatly stack the cialism that often distract us from the Does your family or church have wood in their own space. true meaning of Christmas and special traditions they observe 12 Christian ideas: An ancient Easter grew out of community tradi- during these seasons? Or are catechism used “The Twelve tions that were initially related to they ignored? Days of Christmas” to teach religious observances. St. Nicholas, How does the commercialization basic information about the Bible bishop of Myra, is the forerunner of of these seasons distract us from and Christian faith. Invite the Santa Claus. The giving of gifts can their true meaning? group to create its own be traced to the gifts of the Magi to How can our observances of catechism using this song. the Christ child. The use of eggs at Christmas and Easter make these Divide into two groups. Each Easter came from the symbol of the times meaningful? group uses half of the song to egg as new life an rebirth. As you match the days of Christmas prepare for the seasons of Christ- Optional Activities with a Christian concept, such mas and Easter, look for the cus- The following activities offer as twelve drummers toms and traditions that help you groups a wide range of choices. drumming—the twelve apostles. rediscover the true meanings of Consider the interests and strengths Let each group take turns trying these seasons. of youth and leaders and select to stump the other. those activity options that seem best suited to local time and talents. Media RESOURCE POSTER Remember no one can do every- Today's youth live in a media- The Church Year (No. 1) thing! rich culture that the Church cannot Celebrate! (No. 5) ignore. However, congregational Expressions norms about appropriate experi- Celebrate: Display Resource ences vary and need to be re- Poster No. 5 showing the fire- spected. When choosing media works. One of the ways com- activities consider local sentiments munities celebrate special events and prevailing laws covering public such as the Fourth of July is with performances of copyrighted mate- a display of fireworks. Think about rial. the ways you like to celebrate. What is something that could be Episcopal Curriculum for Youth—The Episcopal Church Year: Session 7 Copyright © 1996 Virginia Theological Seminary 44

Video: Watch The Other Wise Study Going Forth Man based on a story by O. Henry. Seasonal saints: Explore The Gather the group for a closing Print: Compare the Apostles' Book of Common Prayer and prayer and dismissal. Read together Creed with the Nicene Creed. Lesser Feasts and Fasts to find [the prayer] on page of The Book of What is different? What is the out other events and people we Common Prayer (also on p. 3 of the same? Why do we use the Nicene honor during the Christmas and Session Leaflet). Creed at the Eucharist and the Easter seasons. Apostles' Creed in daily worship? Prayer book: Look through The Leader: Let us pray. Book of Common Prayer for O God, whose Son Jesus is the Music liturgical options for the seasons good shepherd of your people: Music is important for today's of Christmas and Easter. Many Grant that when we hear his voice youth and can be an integral part of are described in the rubrics, or we may know him who calls us each youth experience in the context of directions that appear in italics. by name, and follow where he leads; Bible and Church activities. The Dictionary: Look up words that who, with you and the Holy Spirit, music suggestions offered here pertain to the Christmas and lives and reigns, one God, for ever reflect a broad variety of possibilities Easter seasons, such as incar- and ever. Amen. from simple listening to hearty music nation and ascension. Rewrite Collect for the Fourth Sunday of Easter making. Seek out musicians within the definitions so they can be The Book of Common Prayer, p. 225 youth, church, and community easily understood by young groups to sing and play along. people. Leader: Let us go forth into the Read or sing "A stable lamp is world, rejoicing in the power of the lighted" (The Hymnal 1982, 104). Voices Spirit. Listen to "People Get Ready" by Read and discuss the following People: Thanks be to God. Rod Stewart from Storyteller: The quotations (Session Leaflet, p. 2). Complete Anthology. What does it Look For say about Christ's return? God expects from [people] that Youth will be able to describe the Listen to “Coming Out of the their Easter devotions will in seasons of Christmas and Easter as Dark” by Gloria Estefan from Into some measure come up to their the days following times of penitence the Light. What message of hope Easter dress. and fasting. They will be able to list is expressed in this song? Robert Smith ways the seasons can be celebrated, and name symbols and words associ- Service Christmas cards in general and ated with Christmas and Easter. Boxing Day: In England, there is the whole vast commercial drive a custom of giving a box of food called “Xmas” are one of my pet to those who work for you on abominations; I wish they could Boxing Day, December 26. In the die away and leave the Christ- past, often there was enough food mas feast unentangled. to get a family through the winter C. S. Lewis until the spring growing season. Gather food items for a shelter or Why do we celebrate your birth food kitchen in honor of this day. but not your life?. . . Thank you, Christ, on the occasion of Sharing Christmas and always, for giving Celebrate: Examine the ways us life in the midst of death, life, listed in the Engaging activity for life, with you. celebrating the seasons of Malcolm Boyd Christmas and Easter. Select an idea and carry it out by sharing it He became like us that we might with another group or the entire become like him. parish. Athanasius

Epiphany & Pentecost: The Green Seasons The Episcopal Church Year

Objective This session focuses on the two to honor the Christ child. The last seasons associated with the color Sunday after Epiphany celebrates green that is used in worship and as Jesus' transfiguration on the a symbol of growth. Youth will be mountain top where he encounters able to identify Epiphany as the Moses and Elijah and hears the season that proclaims Jesus as voice of God. During the season Savior of the whole World. They will after Epiphany, Christians are describe Pentecost as the season called to grow in their under- that explores the significance of the standing of the Baptismal Covenant Church as the sign of Christ's pres- while promising to “proclaim by ence and ongoing activity in the word and example the Good News SESSION LEAFLET world. of God in Christ” (BCP, p. 305). The season after Pentecost Art—Calendar Background for Leaders follows the Day of Pentecost and is The Commentary describes the the longest season of the Church Key Verse—. . . so that in the day of two seasons and the feasts that year, lasting until Advent. The Day Christ you may be pure and mark their beginnings. Key terms are of Pentecost falls fifty days after blameless, having produced the Epiphany, Pentecost, and trans- Easter and recalls the descent of harvest of righteousness that comes figuration. In the Personal Views, the Holy Spirit upon the disciples through Jesus Christ for the glory think about your faith during these after Jesus' resurrection. For a and praise of God. seasons of “ordinary time.” period of several months the —Philippians 1:10b-11 Church hears Scripture texts that Commentary reveal the ministry of Jesus and the Youth Commentary and Prayer Each of the seasons after Epiph- continuing work of all Christians on any (January 6 to Ash Wednesday) his behalf. During these weeks Voices—George Macdonald, Die- and Pentecost (The Day of Pente- God's people are challenged to trich Bonhoeffer, Robert Raines cost to the First Sunday in Advent) grow in their understanding of begins with a Principal Feast of the discipleship and the Church's Daily Reflections Church (see Session 6). They are mission to restore all people to call “green seasons” because their unity with God” (BCP, p. 855). Words to Remember liturgical color is green and their While both seasons emphasize emphasis is on spiritual growth. growing in faith, there are distinct Prayer—Proper 3 (BCP, p. 229) The name Epiphany is inspired by differences between Epiphany and the Greek work “epipahnos” meaning Pentecost. Epiphany concentrates revelation or showing forth. The on examples of God's self-revela- Sundays after the Epiphany highlight tion to people and emphasizes the Christ's revelation as the Savior of unique revelation of Jesus Christ the world, and Scripture readings as Immanuel, or God with us, for from the lectionary for this season the entire world. Pentecost stress- proclaim Jesus Christ as Messiah es growth as a follower of Jesus in and Lord for Jews an Gentiles. the “knowledge of our Lord and The season opens with Feast of savior Jesus Christ” (II Peter 3:18). the Epiphany (January 6) marking the journey of the Magi to Bethlehem-

Personal Views God and Father of our Lord Jesus The Roman Catholic Church Christ: Open our eyes to see your calls the seasons of Epiphany and hand at work in the world about us. Pentecost “ordinary time.” Al- Deliver us from the presumption of though the season of Epiphany coming to this Table for solace only, lasts only a few short weeks before and not for strength; for pardon only, LECTOR'S TEXT the beginning of Lent, the season and not for renewal. Let the grace of I thank my God every time I remem- of Pentecost begins sometime this Holy Communion make us one ber you, constantly praying with joy around spring after the fifty days of body, one spirit in Christ, that we in every one of my prayers for all of Easter, continues through the may worthily serve the world in his you, because of your sharing in the summer, and goes well into autumn name. gospel from the first day until now. I to the season of Advent. Eucharistic Prayer C The Book of Common Prayer, p. 372 am confident of this, that the one For many of us, this “long green who began a good work among you season” during spring, summer, will bring it to completion by the day and fall is truly ordinary time. The Coming Together of Jesus Christ. It is right for me to “mountaintop” experiences of (Time: 10-15 min) think this way about all of you, Christmas and Easter give way to Hang Resource Poster No. 3 of the because you hold me in your heart, school, work, vacations and ordi- Church calendar at the front of the for all of you share in God's grace nary living in the “valleys.” room. As the youth arrive, ask each with me, both in my imprisonment The green season of Pentecost one to make a list of things they do or and in the defense and confirmation may be truly ordinary, but it pro- places they go during “ordinary time,” of the gospel. For God is my witness, vides an excellent opportunity to the green seasons on the calendar. For how I long for all of you with the look for God's extraordinary work in example: go to school, read a book, compassion of Christ Jesus. And this our lives. During this time, we and so on. is my prayer, that your love may celebrate Jesus' transfiguration that After everyone has gathered, ask overflow more and more with knowl- three of his disciples (Peter, James the youth to find Philippians 1:3-11 in edge and full insight to help you to and John) witnessed on a their Bibles. Select a lector to lead the determine what is best, so that in the mountaintop. And yet, Jesus would following prayer (Session Leaflet, p. 2). day of Christ you may be pure and not allow them to remain there. Lector: Let us pray. blameless, having produced the They left the mountaintop and Most merciful God, we pray for our- harvest of righteousness that comes returned to the valley to the hustle selves that we may grow as Chris- through Jesus Christ for the glory and bustle of ever day life— tians. Help us to see Jesus, your and praise of God. ordinary time. son, in our daily lives. Also help Philippians 1:3-11 In the ordinary settings of the others find their faith and love of you valley Jesus preached the Good and the Church; through Jesus News, healed the sick and taught Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns his disciples. Ordinary time was the with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. TIPS ON THE TOPIC setting for the Lord's extraordinary —Molly, Grade 9 Be sure to explain terms, such as work. Perhaps the seasons of

transfiguration, that are unfamiliar. Epiphany and Pentecost—the Lector: A reading from Philippians, The season of Epiphany and green seasons of ordinary time— chapter 1, verses 3 through 11. Pentecost can seem uneventful, can be the setting for those with the (Full text on p. 2) less exciting than other seasons eyes and ears of faith to sense Lector: The Word of the Lord. of the Church year. Help youth to God's continued presence and People: Thanks be to God. see how extraordinary things can work. Ordinary time may not be so

happen during the ordinary times ordinary after all. of our lives. Think about the ordinary times Engaging (Time: 15-20 min) Discussion Starter: What does in your life when you have grown in Ask the youth to share the lists they the color green mean to you? your faith and understanding of made during the Coming Together Why? God. activity. On a wall calendar, mark with a Lord God of our Fathers; God of green highlighter the days of the year Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; that are in the “green seasons” of

Epiphany and Pentecost. Do not Make sure a variety of games include the Feast Days of Epiphany, are available, and encourage January 6, or Pentecost, fifty days youth to play several games after Easter Day. Discuss the with different people. Being with meaning of the seasons with the people you enjoy and doing following questions: ordinary things can be a way to What proportion of the year is find God. designated a green season? (Di- WEAVINGS vide 352 by the number of green Media Schedule this session before the days on the calendars.) Today's youth live in a media- seasons of Epiphany or Pentecost if Why do you think the Church rich culture that the Church cannot youth plan to make banners or other chose green for these seasons? ignore. However, congregational symbols for display. What kinds of things do you nor- norms about appropriate experi- While the color green is most often mally do during these months? ences vary and need to be re- associated with growth and new life, Do you prefer these “ordinary spected. When choosing media the word also can mean unsea- times” to the more festive times of activities consider local sentiments soned, not fully developed or per- the Church year? and prevailing laws covering public fected, or not properly aged. Most of performances of copyrighted mate- us are in the “green” stages of our Optional Activities rial. spiritual life. During the green The following activities offer Video: Watch together Forest seasons of ordinary time we can groups a wide range of choices. Gump, a movie about an ordi- work on developing our faith to Consider the interests and strengths nary person who does extraordi- maturity. of youth and leaders and select nary things. Where do you find In the Scripture passage for this those activity options that seem best God in this movie? session Paul refers to the “harvest suited to local time and talents. Print: Use magazines to find of righteousness that comes through Remember no one can do every- pictures of ordinary people Jesus Christ.” During the times of thing! doing every day kinds of tasks, the green seasons, we move from such as washing a car, feeding the cold and fallow ground of winter, Expressions a baby, or talking to friends. through the sowing time of spring, Poetry: Ask each youth to write a Make a collage from the maga- the cultivation of summer, to the poem or story about what is zine pictures on a poster board. harvest of the fall. This a good time ordinary in their daily lives, high- Display the collage as an act of to contrast the growing seasons with lighting the places where they prayer. our own spiritual growth. Seeds might find Jesus. must be planted and nurtured before Letters: Invite the youth to write a Music a harvest can take place. Similarly, letter to a friend or relative they Music is important for today's we must cultivate our faith “for the are in touch with only during youth and can be an integral part of glory and praise of God” (Philippians special holidays and might forget youth experience in the context of 1:11). about during the ordinary times in Bible and Church activities. The their lives. music suggestions offered here Banner: Make a banner for the reflect a broad variety of possibili- Green Seasons emphasizing ties from simple listening to hearty spiritual growth and maturity. music making. Seek out musicians Hang the banner somewhere in within youth, church, and commu- RESOURCE POSTER the church, or carry it in the pro- nity groups to sing and play along. Church Calendar (No. 3) cessional during worship services. Sing or read “Lord of all hopeful- ness, Lord of all joy” (The Hym- Games nal 1982, 482). Notice how Playing together: Plan a game many different words the poet day for the group or invite another used to describe the Lord. group to join you. Play games the Sing “Spirit of the Living God” youth enjoy, such as checkers, (Lift Every Voice and Sing II, parchessi, hearts, or solitaire. 115).

Listen to “Home by Another Way” Epiphany stories: Read the Going Forth by James Taylor or “I Just Called to three traditional Bible stories Gather the group for a closing Say I Love You” by Stevie Wonder. associated with Epiphany: prayer and dismissal. Read together Jesus's baptism (Matthew 3:13- Proper 3 on page 229 of The Book of Service 17); the wedding at Cana (John Common Prayer (also on p. 3 of the Missionaries: The Great Com- 2:1-11), and the transfiguration Session Leaflet). mission (Matthew 28:19) to “make (Mark 9:1-8). disciples of all nations” summa- Leader: Let us pray. rizes the message of Epiphany. Voices Grant, O Lord, that the course of this Learn more about the work of the Read and discuss the following world may be peaceable governed North American Mission Society, quotations (Session Leaflet, p. 2). by your providence; and that your South American Missionary Soci- Church may joyfully serve you in ety, and the Foreign and Domes- The holy spirit of the Spring confidence and serenity; through tic Missionary Society of the Is working silently. Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and Episcopal Church. Find out how George Macdonald reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, your group can support their work. one God, for ever and ever. Amen. Christian community . . . is a gift Proper 3 Sharing of God which we cannot claim. . The Book of Common Prayer, p. 229 Finding God in Ordinary Life: . . The more thankfully we daily Take a walk around your church receive what is given to us, the Leader: Let us go forth into the and its grounds. Where are some more surely and steadily will world, rejoicing in the power of the places where you see evidence of fellowship increase and grow Spirit. God's love? Where could you from day to day as God pleases. People: Thanks be to God. express your love for God? For Dietrich Bonhoeffer example, youth could clean up a Look For storeroom, plant flowers in a Lord, give me freedom Are youth able to describe the green barren area, or clean up the to rejoice in your gifts of life seasons? Can they identify Epiphany grounds after a storm. and love, as the time the Church proclaims Jesus to be present in all that I do, as Savior of the whole world? Can the Study and to praise you with all my youth describe Pentecost as the Lectionary: Look up the scripture strength. season that explores Christ's presence readings in the lectionary for the Robert Raines and ongoing activity in the world? seasons of Epiphany and Pentecost. Identify significant people from these readings, and write a few brief facts about each person on separate note cards. Use the cards later to play a guessing game of “Who Am I?”

Saints: Recognizing Devotion The Episcopal Church Year

Objective The focus of this session is the sacrament, prayer, and praise.” Saints and those commemorated by Saints recognized by the Church the Church for their faith and minis- are listed in the Calendar in The try. Youth will be able to identify Book of Common Prayer, p. 19-30. biblical Saints and their feast days in All are New Testament witnesses to The Book of Common Prayer. They Christ and include the apostles, will also name others that the Church Mary and Joseph, Mary recognizes as having shown Magdalene, Paul and others men- exceptional devotion to God. tioned in the Book of Acts. Other extraordinary people have been SESSION LEAFLET Background for Leaders commemorated by the Church and The Commentary describes the are included in the Church calendar Art—Jan Moffatt different kinds of saints recognized designated with lesser feasts. by the Church. Key ideas are com- In the Roman Catholic and Key Verse—. . . for we have heard memoration and sainthood; a key Eastern Orthodox Churches, a long of your faith in Christ Jesus and of date is All Saints Day. For spiritual and complicated procedure leads the love that you have for all the preparation think about the sainthood to canonizing a saint. Miracles saints. of all believers. must be witnessed and validated —Colossians 1:4 before a person can be honored as Commentary a saint. Final approval is given by Youth Commentary and Prayer In the passage from Colossians the pope or a patriarch. In the Paul uses the term saint to refer to Episcopal Church, names are Voices—Eric Hoffer, Laurence all of God's people within the Chris- submitted every three years at Houseman, Martin Luther King, Jr., tian community at Collosae and also General Convention, a national C. S. Lewis to suggest the intention of God to gathering of bishops and deputies. offer the fruits of the gospel to the The members of the convention Daily Reflections entire Roman empire. A saint today vote on those people and collects usually falls into one of three cate- written to honor those proposed for Words to Remember gories: a person recognized as commemoration. People who are preeminent for holiness; a spirit of selected are given a three-year trial Prayer—All Saints' Day (BCP, p. the departed in heaven; or simply a period and then presented to the 245) holy or godly person. convention a second time for The primary theological basis for permanent approval. the practice of venerating or honor- The book of Lesser Feasts and ing the saints is found in Paul's Fasts provides the history, beauti- teaching about the mystical body of fully-written collects, and Scripture Christ (Romans 12:4-8). The cate- passages for saints commemorat- chism (BCP, p. 862) defines the ed by the Church. All Saints Day, communion of saints as “the whole celebrated on November 1, is the family of God, the living and the most significant celebration honor- dead, those whom we love and those ing all those who have gone before. whom we hurt, bound together in At this service some parishes read Christ by the names of the “new saints” or communicants who have died in the

past year. Coming Together For further study: Look through (Time: 10-15 min) Lesser Feasts and Fasts to see the Hang Resource Poster No. 6 show- kind of people the Church has coming a collage of faces at the front of the memorated. room. Look through Lesser Feasts and Fasts or The Book of Common Prayer, Personal Views p. 19-30, and select several saints. Saintly behavior is often an Write the names on poster board, excuse for comparing ourselves leaving space for more information unfavorably with an idea or expec- beneath each name. On index cards, tation of what we think we should write brief descriptions of each saint. As LECTOR'S TEXT be instead of what God knows us youth enter, give them each a card or In our prayers for you we always to be. Most of us will never be let them work in pairs. Ask them to thank God, the Father of our Lord burned at the stake for our faith as match the description with the saint by Jesus Christ, for we have heard of Polycarp was for refusing to curse taping the card beneath the name. your faith in Christ Jesus and of the God. However, God expects us to (Descriptions can be found in Lesser love that you have for all the saints, live our faith in daily, if less dra- Feasts or Fasts or in Holy Days Col- because of the hope laid up for you matic, acts of love, compassion, lects (BCP, p. 237 ff.) in heaven. You have heard of this and courage. Think about your After everyone has gathered, ask hope before in the word of the truth, actions in the past week. Did you the youth to find Colossians 1:3-6 in the gospel that has come to you. give someone an encouraging their Bibles. Select a lector to lead the Just as it is bearing fruit and growing word? Did you call a friend who following prayer (Session Leaflet, p. 2). in the whole world, so it has been was in need? How were you the bearing fruit among yourselves from hand, eyes, and ears of Christ? Lector: Let us pray. the day you heard it and truly Saints are the best example of Dear God, thank you for those comprehended the grace of God. God's grace in action. They were saints and martyrs who gave their Colossians 1:3-6 often chosen for a specific task lives and earthly things for the love because of their limitations, of God. Help us remember that we strength made perfect in weakness. are also saints for the love of God. Has God ever called you to a task Amen. for which you were unprepared? Sara, Grade 7 TIPS ON THE TOPIC How did you respond? Did you Be prepared for youth to ask discover strengths that were Lector: A reading from Paul's Letter about praying to saints for help unknown to you? to the Colossians, chapter 1, verses 3 and guidance. The Church teach- Be aware this week of all the through 6. es that saints intercede for us with saints in your life. See how God (Full text on p. 2) their prayers even as we pray for uses all of us in ministry and ser- Lector: The Word of the Lord. each other. vice. Who has always been avail- People: Thanks be to God. Be clear about the difference able when you needed help? As a between saints and heroes. Peo- part of the communion of saints, Engaging (Time: 15-20 min) ple who are famous, such as God's people love and serve God Go over the matches made by youth sports figures, may be “heroes” to through ministry to each other. for the Coming Together activity. Ask their fans, but are not “heroes” of For in the multitude of your each individual or pair to read the the faith. saints, you have surrounded us description under the saint's name. Discussion Starter: Do you know with a great cloud of witnesses, Briefly discuss the meaning of saint a saint? that we might rejoice in their from information in the Commentary. fellowship, and run with Ask a youth to read the catechism endurance the race that is set (BCP, p. 862) about the communion of before us; and, together with saints. them, receive the crown of glory What do you think of when you hear that never fades away. the word “saint”? Preface for All Saints According to the Church, who are The Book of Common Prayer, p. 380 saints?

Do you think of yourself as a after they die. What epitaph saint? What kind of people are would you want to be written on depicted in the Resource Poster? your tombstone? Do some of them look like you? Would you act differently if you Games WEAVINGS were a saint? Best skit: Divide the youth into Schedule this session before or near Ask the youth to select one or teams. Give each team a book All Saints' Day November 1. more saints from the Coming To- about saints, such as Butlers The Episcopal Church honors those gether activity that they find interest- Book of Saints. Tell each team who have served God in extraordi- ing. Look up the feast day for these to choose a saint and act out a nary ways by commemorating their people in the calendar (BCP, p. 19- scene from the saint's life. After memory on a special day. Those 30). Using information from Lesser each team has performed for selected for this honor are assigned Feasts and Fasts and The Book of the others, give prizes for the a lesser feast day, and we remem- Common Prayer, make greeting most creative, the most difficult, ber then in prayer on that day. The cards honoring the saints that were or the funniest. Make sure that Saints of the Church are all New chosen. Identify the “saints” in your every participant is a winner. Testament figures who were wit- church whose works may be less nesses to Christ's ministry. These visible, such as those in the Altar Media Saints are also remembered by Guild, buildings and grounds crews, Today's youth live in a media- prayer on a special day, and are or nursery workers. Send them “saint rich culture that the Church cannot listed in bold type in the Church cards” as a thank you. ignore. However, congregational calendar in The Book of Common norms about appropriate experi- Prayer, p. 19-39. The communion of Optional Activities ences vary and need to be re- saints includes the whole family of The following activities offer spected. When choosing media God, the living and the dead. groups a wide range of choices. activities consider local sentiments Most of us are unfamiliar with many Consider the interests and strengths and prevailing laws covering public of the people commemorated in of youth and leaders and select performances of copyrighted mate- Lesser Feasts and Fasts. While those activity options that seem best rial. many of these people were forced to suited to local time and talents. Video: Watch the movie The defend their faith in fiery passion Remember no one can do every- Mission. Who is the saint in this and even death, others led lives of thing! film? Are you surprised? quiet persuasion. Charles Simeon, Print: Using comic books, for example, used sermons that Expressions newspapers, and magazine were “unfailingly biblical and simple” Drama: Prepare a short play or articles, explore the difference to promote an evangelical move- scene about a saint selected by between saints and heroes. How ment in the Church of England (LFF, the group. While some youth write would you define hero? Can you November 12). David Oakerhater, a the script from information in name some “heroes” you think Cheyenne warrior who became a Lesser Feasts and Fasts, others should be commemorated by Christian after his capture, can design props and costumes. the Church? ministered to his people by founding Initial Art: Select a favorite saint and operating schools. Look for the from Lesser Feast and Fasts or Music saints of faith whose everyday the Calendar beginning on page Music is important for today's ministry touches the lives of every- 19 of The Book of Common youth and can be an integral part of one around them. Prayer. Working individually or in youth experience in the context of groups, draw the initials of the Bible and Church activities. The saint. Stylize the letters, making a music suggestions offered here RESOURCE POSTER picture that symbolizes the saint. reflect a broad variety of possibili- Friends (No. 6) Departed saints: If a cemetery is ties from simple listening to hearty adjacent or near your church, take music making. Seek out musicians newsprint and crayons and do within youth, church, and commu- rubbings of the stones. Af- nity groups to sing and play along. terwards, ask youth to think about what kind of legacy they will leave

Read or sing “The eternal gifts of Voices Going Forth Christ the King” (The Hymnal Read and discuss the following Gather the group for a closing 1982, 233 or 234). quotations (Session Leaflet, p. 2). prayer and dismissal. Read together Sing “Praise God for the Body” the prayer on page 245 of The Book of (Songs for Celebration, H-304). Many of the insights of the Common Prayer (also on p. 3 of the Listen to “Abraham, Martin, and saints stem from [their] experi- Session Leaflet). John” about modern martyrs. ence as sinners. Eric Hoffer Leader: Let us pray. Service Almighty God, you have knit togeth- Hero or saint? identify a person A saint is one who make good- er your elect in one communion and in the news from your community ness attractive. fellowship in the mystical body of or area whose life and ministry Laurence Houseman your Son Christ our Lord: Give us you admire. Find out how you can grace so to follow your blessed support this ministry with your We die when we refuse to stand saints in all virtuous and godly living, time or through a fund raiser. up for that which is right. We die that we may come to those ineffable when we refuse to take a stand joys that you have prepared for Sharing for that which is true. So we are those who truly love you; through Lights, camera, action: Film the going to stand up right here. . . Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you drama prepared for the Expres- letting the world know that we and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, sions activity to show at a coffee are determined to be free. one God, in glory everlasting. Amen. hour or to other groups in the Martin Luther King, Jr. All Saints' Day church. If appropriate, prepare a The Book of Common Prayer, p. 245 “saintly” snack to serve. . . . while Christendom is divided Worship: Plan an All Hallows Eve about the rationality, and even Leader: Let us go forth into the Service at your church on the lawfulness, of praying to the world, rejoicing in the power of the Halloween. The Book of Occa- saints, we are all agreed about Spirit. sional Services may be a helpful praying with them. People: Thanks be to God. resource. C. S. Lewis Look For Study Are youth able to identify biblical Research: Find out more about Saints and their feast days in The Book saints in Lesser Feasts and Fasts. of Common Prayer? Can they name Visit the library or go on the others that the Church has com- Internet to seek more information. memorated? Are they able to define Many saints have incredible who is part of the communion of saints? legends about their lives and service.