Children and Young People

Lent is a time when we repent (say sorry) for the bad things we have done or said or thought, and get closer to Jesus.  It starts about 40 days before Easter which reminds us of the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert on his own, facing temptations (things that would have been wrong to do).
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, this year that's 14th February.   Usually, in a service, we use ashes from burned palm crosses from last year and the Vicar makes the sign of the cross on our forehead with them, as a sign of REPENTENCE, HUMILITY and MORTALITY.  That's why he says the words:
"Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return" and "Turn away from sin and be faithful to Christ".
This year, during Lent, we'll have some activities you might like to do at home to remind you of Jesus in these 40 days.

"Lent in Three Minutes”
Older children might want to watch this video from Busted Halo: (Busted Halo is a Catholic YouTube channel, but most of what’s included in this video is what we'd do at St Michael's too).

Watch this cartoon, 'Jesus in the Desert'
Using wonderful pictures "40" by Si Smith (an artist from Leeds), and the song "How he loves" by John Mark McMillan this YouTuber created a great video, 'Jesus in the Desert' which you can enjoy with your families as a quiet time of worship.

Here's a great song for Lent
Listen to the lyrics of this song 'Alive' from the brilliant band Hillsong and see how they fit into the Lent story.  In fact, it's a lyric video so you can sing along too!
 

Mothering Sunday

Each year on the fourth Sunday of Lent, many countries celebrate Mothering Sunday.  This typically involves lavishing Mums with gifts and attention and celebrating the women who have nurtured us throughout our lives.  This year it's Sunday, 30th March.
Many traditions have shaped Mothering Sunday into the celebration recognised today.  For example: from the 16th Century (500 years ago) people would make a journey to their ‘mother’ church once a year; also those working in the fields on wealthy farms and estates in England would be allowed to have the day off (which was more family focussed).
On Mothering Sunday, churches around the country will be sharing their own traditions, celebrating and giving thanks to the huge impact mothers have on each of our lives.  We recognise that the day may be difficult for some people and so we include prayers for those who don’t find the day particularly easy.
Why not make this bookmark and offer it as a gift to somebody?  It doesn't have to be just on Mothering Sunday! 

You might like to print this bookmark onto lightweight card, colour it in then cut it out and give it as a gift to somebody to show that you care about them.
 

In the Bible we hear how Jesus came to Jerusalem and people broke off palm branches and went out to meet him waving their palms, cheering 'Hosanna!'  At our 10am service on Palm Sunday, 13th April, we'll be sharing in a procession around the church, receiving our Palm Cross, then learning more in our Godly Play session.

Who is Saint Michael?