Level 3, Session 1: Creation

In this lesson we will learn:

God created human beings in his image and likeness. Creation is a gift from God that shows His goodness. 

We will think about ways we can honor God by respecting his creation. 

Let's begin!

LECTIO DIVINA FOR PARENT AND STUDENT

Students, your parents will have to help you with this part of the lesson. Parents, below is a guide on how to read and think about the scripture reading with your child. Follow this guide to read and discuss the Creation story with your child: 

BEGIN with the Sign of the Cross and silence. 

Parents Say: In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, you inspired the authors of Sacred Scripture to write what you wanted us to know for the sake of our salvation. Inspire us now to hear those words not only with our ears, but our hearts, so that we might know your saving Word for us today. Silence. 

1. Parents Say: Listen to this reading carefully, paying attention to what words, images, or ideas the Holy Spirit brings to your heart. 

Parents READ the sacred text aloud slowly, savoring the words and pausing briefly after significant phrases and sentences. Observe a brief silence after the reading. 

Go to Genesis Chapter 1, and Genesis Chapter 2, Verses 1-3 in the Catholic Student Bible, or click here for online access to the reading, if you have not yet received your Bible.  (Gen. 1, 2:1-3)

Next, watch the video depicting this scripture story, (below), observing a brief silence afterward. 

2. NEXT MEDITATE. In the meditation step, discuss the following questions together: How do the words and images in the Creation story make you feel? What is your favorite part of this story? Why do you think God took a day to rest?  What can we do differently to make sure we rest each week?  

*Parents: Offer your own reflection as a model before inviting your children to share their own thoughts. 

3. PRAY. Respond to the reading by addressing God in prayer. 

Say: Let’s respond to God’s word for us in prayer. 

*Note to Parents: Exactly how you pray the reading will depend on what surfaced during the meditation step. Some possibilities: Offer thanksgiving to God for important insights that emerged from the text. If the text was difficult or confusing, ask God for guidance and clarity. If the text was challenging or caused anxiety, ask God for humility, strength, and the ability to trust in providence. 

4. CONTEMPLATE (This is the hardest part for children, but introduce them to it.) Invite family members to still themselves and “rest in the Word,” attending to God’s presence: 

Parents Say: Let’s quiet our hearts for a few moments so we might hear God’s response to our prayer. Rest now in God’s presence. See if you can sit quietly for 30 seconds. Here's how: 

Parents Say: Let's close our eyes and picture ourselves in the scene of our favorite part of the Creation story. 

CLOSE. After a period of silence, end with the Sign of the Cross: In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Creation Activity: 

Materials Needed: 

Crayons and the ability to print the activity coloring page

Directions: 

Click on Days of Creation Coloring Page and print it for your child to review the scripture reading through coloring.

Students: 

Share your Days of Creation coloring page with the Faith Formation Office. Parents: take a photo of your child's completed coloring page and upload it to his/her Level 3 Faith Formation Google Classroom. We can't wait to see your work! 

Exit Ticket

Before you leave this page, click on the Exit Ticket and tell us your favorite part of the Creation story. 

Lesson Resources: 

(Lectio Divina directions adapted from "Lectio Divina for Kids" at TeachingCatholicKids.com)