You can just never tell what will keep the attention of confirmation students. The million dollar question is: how do we find creative ways to lead conversation that will encourage them to listen, be engaged, and actually take-in what we and others are talking about?
Today’s lesson was about Holy Communion. Certainly, it is a central part of our worship experience and of our Christian walk, but helping teenagers see that, well, can be challenging. We had a plan - tell a story. Really, read them a story, a description about communion, what it means, why we celebrate it.
Now, I must admit, I had my doubts reading to them would work. However, my partner came up with a way to help them use their imagination. He suggested traveling back in time to when they were younger, before fifth grade, and they used to come down front during worship for the Children’s Message. Most kids seem to love that part of worship. So, today, as they gathered in the sanctuary around the altar, they pretended to be young kids again.
Believe it or not, it worked. Every one of the youth listened, put down their electronics (well, almost every), and paid attention. Then we celebrated Holy Communion. They really did seem to “get it.” Praise the Lord. It’s too important for them not to!
Blessings.
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