Service Module

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the service module is to teach the children how Christian service should be implemented in their lives. For fourth graders, it is important to make God real to them and show them how the Holy Spirit works through them in their actions. The theme for this module is "Act with Love." Every week will focus on serving different spheres of their lives. Each week, help them realize how their actions of love are a service to those around them. Week 5 is the capstone week to review and serve together.

MILESTONE

Scripture: The Holy Bible mentions the word "love" at least 300 times. The Holy Bible also teaches that love can be easily expressed to those who do good to us, such as our parents, friends, and other family members. But the Word of God calls us to express love, even to those who hate us, are our enemies, and spitefully use us. If we are to "hear and act" according to the Holy Bible, then we must love all.

Spiritual: In order for us to understand God's act of sacrifice for us, we first have to understand His love for us. Once we grow more in God's love, then we can share His glory with our brothers and sisters through our actions and service to them.

Social: The word "love" has many meanings in today's world. It is not surprising that the world has misconstrued the true definition of love. The Christian meaning of love is found in the verse from the Gospel according to St. John: "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him might have eternal Life." (St. John 3:16). This definition of love is the standard for all Christin behavior.

Rituals: The Coptic Church's Rituals emphasize that at the core of all our Christian Service is Love The Holy Bible teaches us that Love is necessary for our actions to be acceptable before God. "And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing." 1 Corintians 13:2. Our prayers, our humility, our almsgiving, and our treatment of others has to transcend the walls of the church and be shown to the entire community at large.

TOPICS BY WEEK

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

  • Week 1: Love of Self/Pure Love
  • Week 2: Love Your Elders
  • Week 3: Love Your Schoolmates/Peers
  • Week 4: Love Different Cultures
  • Capstone Activity

CHURCH CONNECTION

Please make every effort to incorporate our Orthodox traditions, liturgical practices, saints, and sacraments in every lesson.

PARENTS CORNER

Every lesson contains suggested material for you to send out to parents/guardians on a weekly basis. The ultimate goal is to give parents tools and resources necessary to educate their children every day, creating an Orthodox Christian home.