E Elementary Catholic Classrooms: The physical environment From the first moment that a student sets foot in a Catholic school, he or she ought to have the impression of entering a new environment, one illumined by the light of faith, and having its own unique characteristics. 1 Purpose of this document To assess the classroom environment for signs of Faith To provide support for teachers to incorporate faith into the physical environment of their classroom Implementation & Monitoring: The checklist will be used by teachers and administrators The frequency of use will be determined by the teacher and/or administrator Support and illustrated examples of expectations will be provided for each checklist point Prayer is an essential element of the religious education of children. Through prayer, children are able to express and deepen their relationship with God. It is the task of the religion teacher to assist students in the development of their prayer life 2 1 WILLIAM Cardinal BAUM; The Religious Dimension of Education in a Catholic School 2 Creating a prayer space intro; Holy Family pg. 1
Table of Contents Classroom Walkthrough Checklist Page 3 The Elementary Prayer Space Page 4 The Elementary Prayer Table Page 5 The Elementary Wall Space Page 6 Appendix A: Examples of Required Items Page 7 The Bible Page 7 The Cross Page 8 The Candle Page 9 The Tablecloth Page 10 The Rosary Page 11 Appendix B: Prayer Table Elements Page 12 According to Season Ordinary Time Page 12 Advent Page 13 Christmas Page 14 Lent Page 15 The Triduum Page 16 Easter Page 17 Appendix C: The Interactive Prayer Table Page 18 General Ideas Page 18 Ideas According to Season Page 19 pg. 2
Elementary Catholic Classroom Walkthrough Checklist 3 Upon entering the classroom one will immediately observe external signs, physical and visual, of the Catholic culture, through such things as: images, symbols, icons, and other objects of devotion and faith. Question Yes No The Classroom Are there Christian elements immediately evident upon entering the classroom? Is there a prayer space in the classroom? Is there a prayer table in the classroom? Is there a wall space/ bulletin board dedicated to Faith? The Prayer Table Is the prayer table visible? Is the prayer table clear of clutter? Neat? Is the prayer table accessible to all the students: can they touch it? Is it at their physical level to visit it? Does the prayer table have a cloth on it? Is the cloth the appropriate colour for the liturgical season? Does the prayer table have a cross on it? Does the prayer table have a Rosary on it? Does the prayer table have a Bible on it? Is the Bible elevated? Does the prayer table have a candle on it? Is there a symbol or item present that represents the current season of the church? Are there other notable items on the prayer table (select from following list) Devotional book Plant/ Flowers Saint Statue Holy Water Artwork Other (comment below) Wall Space Is there a Crucifix on the wall of the classroom? Is there elements of the wall space that illustrate the Christian Message? 3 Adapted from Edmonton Catholic s Documents, Catholic Environment Checklist pg. 3
The Elementary Prayer Space We cannot make children pray, but we can create an environment that encourages prayer. Prayerful images, soft music, dimed lighting, comfortable posture, and an atmosphere of peacefulness and quiet all assist in helping children to pray. Young Children respond to and need concrete images to assist them in the development of a prayer life in the same way that concrete materials help them to learn other education concepts and skills ~WILLIAM Cardinal BAUM Ideally an elementary classroom in a Catholic School would have an area of the classroom dedicated to prayer. This space should hold a prominent place in the classroom; provide a focus for prayer; and be a constant reminder of the presence of Jesus. Of course it is understandable that with the restraints of some classrooms a space, dedicated strictly to prayer, is not a possibility. The following are suggestions on how to develop and use a prayer space in your classroom. A Classroom prayer space should be a focal point in the room and evident upon entering the room. The prayer area should have the following elements. o A space, separate from student desks, that provides enough Room so that the entire class is able to gather together for prayer. o A rug or some other form of comfortable seating for students. o A prayer table o Wall space Not all classrooms have the physical space to accommodate a prayer space, if this is the case, a prayer table alone with some wall space is sufficient. pg. 4
The Elementary Prayer Tables The prayer table is the focal point of a classroom prayer space. It is a place where the Bible is given reverence, where children can interact, in a meaningful and positive way, with their faith. The following are some components to remember when developing/ setting up your prayer table (this list is by no means exhaustive, please share with your colleagues other ideas you may have): o o o o o o o o It should be a suitable table if possible The prayer table visually changes throughout the Liturgical year (For more information on how the prayer table changes see Appendix B) The prayer table Must have the following elements o Tablecloth (preferably not a piece of paper but an actual cloth), it should be of appropriate length, covering the entire table (examples in Appendix A) o An elevated Bible: Given a place of honor on the table (examples in Appendix A) o Candle: this can be electric or regular, however it should be lit/turned on during prayer time. (examples in Appendix A) o Cross: If possible in an upright position (examples in Appendix A) o Rosary (examples in Appendix A) o An element to represent the Liturgical season (For ideas of items to represent the seasons of the church see Appendix B) The prayer table may have the following elements: o A small box and slips of paper so student can write prayers and intentions that can be read during prayer time. o Devotional book o Plant/ Flowers o Holy Water o Saint statue or figurine The Prayer corner/table should be interactive; students are able to take ownership (for ideas on how to make a prayer table interactive see Appendix C) Attempt to ensure there are authentic and fitting symbols present; not just religious stuff Situated at a level appropriate for the students in the classroom. The prayer table is free of clutter. No loose papers, water bottles, markers, whiteboard erasers, etc. It is important to note, that although there are many things we can place on a prayer table, we do not want to overdo it, do not overcrowd or clutter the prayer table. Remember to remove the seasonal items, drawing back to the simplicity of centering prayer pg. 5
The Elementary Wall Space: Each classroom has a significant role to play because each classroom establishes age appropriate ways to connect the children to their faith and its teachings. Figure 1 Hands on Bible Teacher The Wall space or bulletin board in a classroom provides an ideal opportunity to infuse the classroom with the Christian message. Some ideas are below: o A Crucifix o List of daily or weekly prayer intentions, o Pictures or posters to reflect themes of respect and beauty, o Positive messages using the language of Catholic faith, o School mission statement turned into a prayer, o Student s work reflecting Religious themes o Images of Saint s o Icons Religious images can leave an indelible mark on the students minds and perhaps touch their hearts in a way that our words do not. pg. 6
Appendix A: Examples of required items The Bible The Bible is the inspired Word of God. It should be given a place of prominence on the prayer table. It is important when choosing a Bible for your classroom that you are aware of the different versions and what Catholics use. When buying a Bible ensure that you get the Catholic version (ex: The Catholic NRSV). That being said, you do want to choose a bible that will engage your students and is at their level. Below are examples of some Bibles that would work in a Catholic Classroom. The Bible, if possible, should also be elevated. Here are a few different book stands. pg. 7
The Cross Jesus died on the Cross for us; this is a big deal! What once was a symbol of torture is now a sign of hope and salvation. It should have a central part of our space and our day. Preferably we want the cross upright, however, it is understandable that may not be possible. It is also best to have a Crucifix, rather than a cross, as this is a visual reminder of Jesus sacrifice for us. If you do not have a Crucifix on the prayer table, there should be one on the wall somewhere in the classroom. Below are examples of some Crosses and Crucifixes that would work on a prayer table (not an exhaustive list, there are many different crosses that can be used): Table Top Wall Unique pg. 8
The Candle Light is pure; it penetrates darkness; it moves with incredible velocity; it nourishes life; it illumines all that comes under its influence. Therefore it is a fitting symbol of God, the All Pure, the Source of all grace and enlightenment. It represents also our Blessed Savior and His mission. He was "the Light of the world,"[john 8:12] to enlighten "them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death. [Luke 1:79]. 4 Lighting the prayer table candle, before prayer helps to settle students and create an atmosphere of sacredness and respect for prayer time. Below are examples of Candles you may want to have on your prayer table, as well as some suggestions: o Eclectic candles are appropriate o Please refrain from having a scented candle, due to allergies or irritations the smell may cause o Candles or candle holders can change colour with the Liturgical season 4 http://www.awakentoprayer.org/candles.htm pg. 9
The Tablecloth When we have special meals in our home, we often use a tablecloth. During the Liturgy of the Eucharist an altar cloth adorners the altar. It is custom then to have a tablecloth covering the prayer table in a classroom. For it is a special place in our classroom, where we offer reverence for our Lord, the cloth helps to identify it as a special place. Suggestions and examples of Prayer Tablecloths o The material should be cloth, NOT a piece of construction paper or something similar. o Colours of cloth change throughout the year o Ordinary Time = Green o Advent = Purple o Christmas = White o Lent = Purple o The Triduum = Red Because this season is only three days and often children are not in school, it is not necessary to have a red cloth on hand. o Easter = White o The cloth should hang over the sides of the table. pg. 10
The Rosary No Prayer Table, or Catholic Classroom, is complete without a Rosary. It is a form of prayer that involves our participation physically, verbally, and mentally. Its power is so great that we do not need to even say it to benefit from it, for in times of darkness, holding the Rosary Beads is like holding your Blessed Mother s hand 5. Having a Rosary, and a how to pray the rosary card, on your prayer table, and giving students the opportunity to hold it and pray it, is a wonderful thing. 5 https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/6a/09/af/6a09af9aecbf736b3f7820b9e53c3b32.jpg pg. 11
Appendix B: Prayer Table Elements According to Season The seasons of the church change throughout the year. Our year begins with the Season of Advent, moves into Christmas, then Ordinary time, then Lent, next comes the Triduum and after that it is Easter, upon the end of Easter we move back into Ordinary time and there we stay until the next Advent. The Prayer Table should reflect these changes in season; both in colour and symbols. Below are some suggestions of items/pictures you may want to include on your prayer table through the seasons of the church. Ordinary Time General Info: The longest liturgical season in the year. Happens twice in a year. A time when the people of the Church meditate upon the whole mystery of Christ- his life, miracles and teachings in the light of his Resurrection 6 Colour: Green (the colour of growth and hope) Some Symbols: The Chi-Rho is consists of the first two letters of the Greek word for Christ. The fusion of these two letters into an abbreviation became a symbol for Christ. Picture of footsteps, this is to symbolize how the season of Ordinary time is an open invitation to walk with the Lord. Green is a symbol of hope and life. Having a living green plant symbolizes this. It reminds us that God's love, like the life flowing through this plant, is faithful. A picture or map marking the ministry of Jesus. Ordinary time is a time where we follow Jesus through his ministry. Throughout this season we listen as the Gospels unfold for us the life and preaching of Jesus. Pictures of the miracles of Jesus, such as the Wedding Feast at Cana, that are explored during the season of Ordinary time would also be great additions to the prayer table. 6 Catholic Curlutre.org pg. 12
Advent General Info: The focus of Advent is on the coming of our Lord. However this is three-fold. We reflect back and celebrate the Lord s first coming into this world, we celebrate his coming among us today, and we look forward to the second coming of Christ, when our Lord will come again to judge the living and the dead. Advent is a period of quiet and meditation; a time inspired by anticipation rather than penance; a season that acknowledges our incompleteness 7 Colour: Purple (a sign of penance, sacrifice and preparation) The Jesse Tree Advent Wreath: Some symbols The Jesse Tree is used in many classrooms as a way to teach the events leading us to Jesus s birth. We adorn the tree with illustrated ornaments that represent the people, prophesies, and events leading up to the birth of Christ. The ornaments of the Jesse Tree tell the story of God in the Old Testament, connecting the Advent season with the faithfulness of God across four thousand years of history 8 This wreath is rich in symbols and traditions, and calls to mind the coming of the Messiah. It is most often in the shape of a circle to symbolize eternal life. It holds four candles, three purple and one pink, which throughout the four Sundays of Advent are lit. These candles sometimes hold individual meaning which is explained below. The wreath and the candles reflect the passage of the Advent season. Advent Candles and Advent Sundays Each Advent Sunday takes on a particular character as suggested by the Gospel reading and each Candle holds a special meaning (the meanings attributed to the candles are cultural, not liturgical) 1 st Sunday 2 nd Sunday 3 rd Sunday 4 th Sunday Peace Hope Hope is like a light shining in a dark place. As we look at the light of this candle we celebrate the hope we have in Jesus Christ who is coming into our world Gospel & Weekday Readings The Lord s coming in glory at the end of time The readings of the first part of Advent center on readings of the prophet Isaiah, with gospel passages that reflect a sense of fulfilment of the reading. We light the candle of peace to remind us that Jesus is the Prince of Peace and that in him lasting peace is found. Joy Reminds us that when Jesus is born again in us we have joy and that through him there will be everlasting joy on earth. Gospel & Weekday Readings John the Baptist and his message of reparation and repentance During the second & third weeks, the gospel readings introduce us to John the Baptist as the one who prepares us for the coming of the Lord (at Christmas and at the end of time) through his message of repentance Love Love is like a light shining in a dark place. As we look at this candle we celebrate the love we find in Jesus Christ whose coming is near. Gospel & Weekday Readings Events that immediately prepared for the Lord s birth The gospel readings from Matthew and Luke recount the events that prepared for the Lord s birth. 7 Celebrating the Season of Advent Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops 8 Loyola Press pg. 13
Christmas General Info: Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. For Catholics, it is not just a single day (Dec. 25), but an extended liturgical season of joy and celebration. Christmas season, during which we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, includes the Feast of the Holy Family, the Feast of the Mother of God and Epiphany. Colour: White (the colour of purity and new life) The Nativity Some Symbols: Nativity is the name we give to the occasion of someone s birth. Since one aspect of the season of Advent is recalling the events leading to the birth of Christ, it makes sense to have something depicting the actual occasion. A statue or figurines depicting the Nativity of our Lord is an excellent element to add to the prayer table during the season of Advent. A picture showing the event is also welcome. The Magi Frankincense Gold Myrrh A picture or figurine depicting the Magi is another item you may want to include on the prayer table. As well, samples of Frankincense, Gold and Myrrh, available to purchase at many stores, would be great additions and would definitely engage students. The Star of Bethlehem Having a star on the prayer table is an opportunity to discuss with students the role of the star in the Nativity story, and also to talk about what the stars teach us about God. The Shepherds The Angels The Shepherds in the Nativity story are of great interest to students, having a picture or figurine to represent them is a great addition to the prayer table. It also opens the door to a discussion about how Jesus is the Greatest Shepard of all! Angels are messengers, throughout the course of history they have been commissioned by God for certain duties on earth. Angels play an important role in the events leading to and the day of, the birth of Christ. pg. 14
Lent General Info: Lent is a time of prayer and penance, when Christ wants to lead us back to our baptismal promises of dying to sin and of living for God. We prepare ourselves to enter once again into Jesus Paschal mystery and to renew it in our lives. Colour: Purple (Symbolizes repentance and penance) Some Symbols: The symbols of Lent are many, and change throughout the season. The following is a list of symbols (not complete), one may have on their prayer table during the season of Lent. They are listed in the order they would appear if following the liturgical Calendar. 1. Ashes (Ashes from the Ash Wednesday celebration) 2. Picture of Jesus in the desert 3. A large bowl of sand with rocks and twigs (symbolic of the desert) 4. Pictures depicting the three temptations of Christ 5. Palm Branches (to mark the triumphant entrance of Our Lord into Jerusalem) 6. Questions that are from an examination of Conscience 7. Picture/Figurine showing Last Supper 8. Bread (Symbol of the Last Supper) 9. Chalice (In remembrance of the last supper) 10. Crown of Thorns (reminds us of the upcoming season of Triduum and Christ s passion and death). 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 pg. 15
The Triduum General Info: The summit of the Liturgical Year is the Easter Triduum this three-day observance begins on the evening of Holy Thursday with the Mass of the Lord s Supper and ends on Saturday evening with the Easter Vigil. Though chronologically three days, they are liturgically one day unfolding for us the unity of Christ's Paschal Mystery. The single celebration of the Triduum marks the end of the Lenten season, and leads to the Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at the Easter Vigil. The liturgical services that take place during the Triduum are o Mass of the Lord's Supper o Good Friday of the Lord's Passion o Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord Colour: Red (Symbolizes both blood and fire) The Triduum falls on a time when most students are not in school. For this reason many of the symbols related to the Triduum are included in the symbols for Lent. In our hour of deepest sorrow, we can receive profound peace from the words of the angel that first Easter morning HE IS NOT HERE, FOR HE IS RISEN. pg. 16
Easter General Info: Fifty days of Easter joy will bring us to the feast of Pentecost. God s gift of life is complete in the sending of the Holy Spirit. Colour: White (symbolizes purity, holiness, virtue, as well as respect and reverence) Some Symbols: Easter Lilies: the White blossoms symbolize the purity of Jesus. Lilies, emerging from the earth in the spring. 9 A stuffed lamb: Represents Jesus as, The Lamb of God. Dove: A symbol of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit descended on the disciples at Pentecost, which marks the end of the Easter season. The Butterfly: It symbolizes the life of Jesus Christ. The first stage, is the caterpillar, which stands for His life on Earth. Second phase begins from the cocoon stage, portraying the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. The third and final stage is the butterfly, representing His raising from the dead in a glorified body and peace. The Easter season is an invitation to live out the meaning of our baptism. Holy Water reminds us of our baptism. A picture showing the empty tomb would be a great addition to a prayer table. It reminds us of the resurrection of Christ; Jesus triumphant reign over death! 9 Immaculate Conception Parish pg. 17
Appendix C: The Interactive Prayer Table This portion of the document provides a small sampling of ideas for making the classroom prayer area/table more interactive. It is split into two parts: General Ideas and Ideas by Season, General Ideas Prayer Ribbon Wall 10 : Invite students to tie a ribbon as a symbol of their prayer. Tell them to add their prayers amongst the many prayers and as they tie the ribbon, to ask God to hear the prayers of those already tied on the prayer wall. Green Ribbon= prayers of gratitude and thanksgiving Blue Ribbon= prayers of confession and forgiveness Pink Ribbon= prayers of adoration and praise Red= prayers for others, friends and family. White= prayers for the world Prayer Tree 11 : this Prayer tree is a great way to make your prayer table interactive. Have students write prayers on the leaves. During intentions, or at different times during the day, take off one of the leaves and read it aloud. After you read a leaf, you can put it in a "prayer box." Pray and Praise Bowl 12 : A way to be aware that God answers prayers. Have an empty bowl, an assortment of small colored rocks, and white and green beads. For every answered prayer, drop in a stone, for every praise drop in a green bead, for every blessing drop in a white bead. Also have large beads for those big things that blow us away, the big blessings (like the birth of a child). 10 Taken from theresaecho.com 11 Danielle Carter: Pinterest 12 http://ravingrebecca.blogspot.ca/2011/01/prayer-praise-bowl.html pg. 18
Ordinary Time Ideas according to Season Ordinary time is a great time to look at the lives of Saints. As you explore the different Saints, have a map in the prayer corner of your room that shows the areas of the world that the saints are from. Throughout Ordinary time we look at the events of Jesus ministry. As you explore the bible stories have students identify on the map where the bible story took place. Advent & Christmas Each morning have a different student open the door and read the Advent bible verse. Keep doors closed with a paper clip or pushpin 13 Preparing the Manger: Have an empty manger in the classroom (either real or a picture of one). The gift students will give back is the gift of service. Every time they do a good deed, or help someone, or do something kind, they may add a piece of straw to the manger (an optional idea would be for them to write the deed on the straw). The more kindness the class shows others the softer the manger will be on Christmas Eve. Lent: The Act of Love jar has different things they can do each day such as share a toy with a classmate or be extra nice to someone at school. The Prayer Jar has a special intention for each day. The teacher leads prayer and then students chose an act and prayer intention for the next day. The morning of the following day the teacher reminds the kids what our act of love and prayer intention is for that day. 13 Suz Wieland Pinterest pg. 19