Liturgy Module

OBJECTIVE

In this module, we will explore how we experience the Church with all of our senses. We hope to teach children that the Church is heaven on earth. Focus on (1) gaining familiarity with the church (2) spiritual foundation to find Christ in everything within the church, (3) developing dialogue so if any doubt or questions arise they have a platform to engage (4) overcome/eliminate boredom during the liturgy. Each week will focus on a different sense and how we use it to experience church and the liturgy.

TOPICS BY WEEK

Please read through all of the lessons in this module in preparation for this module.

• Week 1: Sight and Touch - Our Colorful Church & Icons
• Week 2: Hearing & Hymns
• Week 3: Smell & Incense
• Week 4: Taste & Communion
• Capstone Activity

MILESTONES

Scripture

All the aspects of our liturgical prayer are founded in scripture. Scripture emphasizes the beauty of the House of the Lord, that our prayers are like incense rising to God, that God delights in our hymns and praises, and that Christ Himself instituted the sacrament of communion for our salvation.

Spiritual

The key spiritual element is understanding that our church is heaven on earth and that we are able to communicate with God through all of our senses when we are in church.

Social

The children should understand the importance of participating in the liturgy, by interacting with the icons, by singing hymns and congregation responses, by standing and bowing when Abouna offers incense, and to prepare for and participate in communion respectfully.

Rituals

This module should cover the parts of the liturgy (vespers, matins, liturgy of the word/faithful, and communion). We are mostly focusing on the children's experience through their senses during the liturgical rite.