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Children’s ministry – Resources for Lent

The season of Lent beckons us on a journey of discipleship. The Lenten texts remind us of God’s unwavering love as we find the courage to look truthfully at ourselves and make changes. It is a time of preparation and reflection. It is also a challenging season for those of us involved in Christian Education. Some of the Lenten themes and stories are difficult, especially for younger children. How can we help them embrace the rich traditions and stories of Lent? How can we help provide an experience of Lent that will be meaningful for them?

I have found that it is best to keep things simple and easy. Here are a few resources that I have found helpful. I hope that they will provide you with some good ideas for your children’s ministry.

Bury the Alleluia – a simple activity that children really seem to enjoy.

Making pretzels – a traditional Lenten snack that children love to make.

A free Lenten calendar for families that can be printed and sent home with the children. This one is produced by the Uniting church in Australia

The temptation of Jesus – A Reflective story

Creating a special prayer ritual for Lent

A simple ongoing activity to help the children discover more about the season of Lent.

The Compendium of the Church Mice and the Virtual Church School both offer free lessons for the Season of Lent.

Finally if you have someone who in your congregation who is gifted at crafts you might ask them to make a Lenten Spiral. This idea could be simplified by arranging 6 votive tea candles along a spiral. Create a simple gathering ritual in which you light a pathway of candles that become progressively brighter as a new candle is added each week.

What will you be doing with the children in your church? What activities have you got planned for this Lent?

Sharon Harding

About Sharon Harding

I was born in England and immigrated to Canada almost 30 years ago. A graduate of Gloucestershire University (B.Ed.), I have been involved in children’s ministry since I was 16. Over the past 12 years I have written for a variety of Christian Education curriculum resources. I also write a blog at rediscoveredfamilies.com encouraging parents to build strong connections with their children. When I am not working I enjoy painting, reading, and pottering around the Internet.
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