St. Polycarp
OBJECTIVE
The objective of the history module is to teach children the rich history and traditions of the Coptic church. In this module, we will go over key figures in Christianity such as Christ and disciples, St.Mark, St.Anianus, and St.Polycarp. These Saints established the grounds of our Coptic faith and built the foundation of the Coptic Orthodox Church. They are important figures in early Christianity and we appreciate their stories and the lessons that they have left us. St.Polycarp was a holy man and a bishop who continuously defended the faith from heresies and controversies.
INTRODUCTION & HOOK - 10 Minutes
Begin the lesson with a song about rain. Discuss with the children why God gave us rain. God gave us rain to grow the gifts of fruit, vegetables, and water. What happens if there is no rain?
HOLY SCRIPTURE - 2 Minutes
Memory Verse
"I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I have set my heart on your laws." (Psalm 119:30)
CONTENT (KEY POINTS) - 15 Minutes
St. Polycarp was a disciple of St.John the apostle. He heard about St.John's stories with Jesus and kept these stories in his heart. He loved hearing the lessons that Jesus taught St.John and wanted others to hear them too. Because he loved God, he used to defend the faith against the wrong teachings.
St. Polycarp's name used to be Pangratios. He was an orphan. After his orphaned mother passed away, he gave away all his money to help the sick people and dedicated his life to serving God. He lived in the countryside of Smyrna in Asia Minor and served as a young priest with Bishop Bucolus of the city. One day, a drought came and infected the land. There was no water for the crops so they did not grow and the animals and people did not eat. People started getting sick since there wasn't clean water available. Everyone was getting upset.
The Bishop and his young priest Pantagratios decided to ask God for help. They told all the Christians to fast and pray for three days. On the third day, God finally heard their prayers. The clouds began to appear in the heavens and the rain came. Everyone became so happy because God ended the drought. After this miracle, everyone called Father Pantagratios, Father Polycarp which means "many fruits". He later became appointed as the Bishop of the sea of Smyrna when he was 40 years old.
The Roman empire was being ruled by Caesar. He persecuted Christians if they did not bow down to him. St.Polycarp was captured and asked if he believed in Caesar. St.Polycarp was not afraid because he had great faith. He told them he was a Christian. When the Romans heard this, they tried to burn him with fire, but God protected him. He did not let the fire touch him. The fire formed an arc around him, letting him glow in appearance. He was later martyred for his faith.
DISCUSSION (Challenge) - 10 Minutes
Discuss with the students how St.Polycarp turned to God during the drought and how St.Polycarp maintained his faith even when he was in danger. God never leaves us. He is always watching over his children. How can we apply this to our lives?
Encourage children to tell you how they will apply what they learned in their lives. Give the children a goal to work on this week at home.
LIFE APPLICATION - 10 Minutes
This week at home every time you eat fruit, remember to thank God for the blessings for the rain, the season, and everything.
ACTIVITY - 15 Minutes
Option One:
St.Polycarp means many fruits. Today we will be doing a craft that represents the drought miracle that saved the countryside of Smyrna.
This craft will need a paper plate, string, and the fruit template coloring page as well as coloring pencils. Color the fruit coloring page then cut and glue onto the paper plate. Draw raindrops on the paper plate with a blue sharpie or marker or create with blue construction paper. Add the string to make a basket. Check out the printable activities for the coloring page.
Option Two:
Print and distribute the icon of St. Polycarp. Discuss the story of this great Saint. Have them write their names on their paper to review at home.
SERVANT RESOURCES
St. Polycarp, the Beloved Peacemaker, essay on LACopts.org
St. Polycarp Bishop of Smyrna, essay on SUSCopts.org
PARENTS CORNER/HOMEWORK
Review the story of St. Polycarp with your kindergartener this week. Pray through the intercessions of St. Polycarp during your prayer routines. Remind your kindergartener to thank God for our blessings and practice being grateful this week.