Today is the first day of Holy Week.
This is the week that marks the beginning of Jesus’ walk to crucifixion and then rising to save us.
I facilitate the children’s Living Stations of the Cross. We had practice today in the church. It’s an interesting dynamic when dealing with children and the Passion. Some have very little idea ofwhat they are involved in. Others know the stations.
But, I have to say that I am somewhat like the old Irish nun when it comes to respecting my religion and what Jesus did for us. I think I learned this respect from my Great Aunt Anna who was devout and walked the walk. There was no disrespect.
The first thing I do is sit down and explain to all the participants what we are doing and why. I make sure that they know that Good Friday is actually the saddest day in the catholic faith. They look at me strange. I go on to explain that although Jesus told His followers He would rise in three days, they didn’t know for sure.
Faith is believing what we can’t see.
So, I have them imagine how difficult this was. Seeing their Messiah be murdered on a cross and then wait three whole days to see if He rises. That’s like having all of your Christmas presents under the tree and having to wait three days to open them.
All in all it went well.
A class of sixth grade religious Ed students were in the church watching, giggling and talking. I stopped my children, turned to them and asked them what they thought was so funny. I also told them to keep it down. I taught in the Bronx prior to moving to Newtown so when I talk in my teacher voice, the kids usually listen.
It was funny that by the end of our practice, most of the sixth graders were engaged in the performance.
I told them that we were dedicating the performance to the victims on our town.
That changed their behavior slightly.
Either way, I think we all learned a little bit today. Earlier in the day I watched half of “The Passion of the Christ.”. I find it horrifying. When I think of His walk, I envision the movie. And my gratitude is boundless.
Well, that’s it for today.
Goodnight.
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