Today, Year 4 had a fantastic time at Church of the Ascension to participate in a few different workshops where they learnt all about Lent.
One of the activities focused on Ash Wednesday. This is a day, where Christians often reflect on things they have done wrong and ask for forgiveness. Children were asked to write or draw something they would like to be forgiven for. This activity ended with children having the option to have a cross of ash drawn on their hands.
Children identified Lent is often a time people ‘give things up’. Children were reminded of Jesus having no food or water for 40 days and nights. They discussed how some Christians choose to fast during this time. On a sheet, children drew or wrote what they would find hard to give up during Lent.
In another activity, they thought about how some Christians think Lent is not only a time to give something up but to try something new. Children discussed how many Christians believe Lent is a time to think about kindness, patience and growth. To reflect on growth and how they can become better, children planted a seed and thought about how they change over time. This was followed up with a discussion about the kind things the children wanted to try and do during the time of Lent.
Finally, they considered how times can sometimes be hard. They thought about how it would have been difficult for Jesus in the Desert with no food or water. Jesus would have been supported and kept focused by the Holy Spirit. Children decorated a pebble with something they would like to ask for support with.