Famous Prayers Unpacked: 26 Five-minute Stories Exploring the Lord's Prayer and the Prayer of St.Francis
What’s inside...
From the author of Through the Year with Timothy Bear comes the adventures of Tom Wetherby, a young boy whose everyday escapades will be recognized by children everywhere. Each adventure has been devised to entertain children in the 6-10 age range. The stories unpack the phrases of two famous prayers: The Lord's Prayer and St Francis' prayer of peace. Alongside each story, there is a suggestion for an appropriate Bible link and thought-provoking follow-up material for the assembly or classroom. The book contains 26 delightful five-minute stories based on the character of Tom Wetherby, a young boy who enjoys the kind of everyday adventures recognized by children everywhere. This book is suitable for children in the 6-10 age band. It includes suggestions for an appropriate Bible link and follow-up material useful for the assembly or classroom.
Age
8-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What does the phrase 'give us this day our daily bread' in the Lord's Prayer mean to you?
How can the Prayer of St. Francis inspire us to be better helpers and peace-makers?
Why do you think gratitude is important, as shown in these prayers?
Can you think of a moment today when you could apply the lessons from these prayers?
How do these prayers make you feel about your relationship with others and the world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting each story, ask your child what they know or remember about the Lord's Prayer or the Prayer of St. Francis to gauge their initial understanding.
After reading each prayer story, encourage your child to express how they might use the prayer’s message in their daily life.
Discuss the historical and cultural context of these prayers to enhance comprehension and appreciation.
Link the themes to your child's personal experiences to make the stories more relatable and impactful.
Use the prayers as a nightly reflection prompt, discussing one aspect each time to deepen understanding gradually.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: Through exploring the Prayer of St. Francis, which emphasizes being an instrument of peace and seeking to understand rather than be understood, children learn the values of empathy and kindness.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these lessons by showing compassion in interactions with their peers and offering help to those in need, fostering a more understanding and supportive environment.
Example Lesson: The power of reflection
Explanation: The book breaks down the Lord's Prayer, encouraging children to reflect on its deeper meanings, such as forgiving those who trespass against us and seeking guidance away from temptation.
Real-World Application: Children learn to reflect on their actions and choices, promoting self-awareness and accountability in their daily decisions and interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of gratitude
Explanation: The prayers discussed often express gratitude, which teaches children to appreciate the blessings in their lives, no matter how small.
Real-World Application: By recognizing and being thankful for what they have, children develop a positive attitude and learn to value their family, friends, and surroundings.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through faith
Explanation: Stories explore how faith can provide strength and comfort during challenges, as seen in prayers for deliverance and help.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to lean on their faith or core beliefs as a source of strength during difficult times, helping them to persevere and overcome obstacles.
Example Lesson: Understanding and respecting diversity
Explanation: The book includes prayers from different cultures and perspectives, which can teach children about the diverse ways people express their spirituality and beliefs.
Real-World Application: This lesson assists children in respecting various religious and cultural practices they encounter, fostering inclusivity and tolerance in their everyday interactions.