1
Bernadette
Aim
To familiarize children with the lifestyle of Bernadette.
To help children understand that commitment is an important part of a
Christian lifestyle.
Preparation
Before the lesson read the story of
Bernadette.
Prepare a magic box.
Prepare a range of art materials.
Lesson
Begin by re-introducing the children to the 'magic box'. On this occasion, tell them when they look inside the box, they will 'see' something beautiful. Take a look inside the box. Share your 'vision' with the class. Circulate the box around the group. What beautiful 'visions' did the children see? Allow the children to describe them to you.
After a number of children have described their visions, ask the group if what they saw was 'real'. What would they think of you, if you insisted that your vision had been real?
Introduce the story of Bernadette, by telling the children that there was once a little girl who had a vision which she said was real. Her name was Bernadette and she lived in France over a hundred years ago.
Share with the children the story of Bernadette and how, despite threats, ridicule and physical abuse, she would not give up the belief that her vision of the Beautiful Lady was real.
Bernadette was a Christian. Most Christians have beliefs that they would not give up under any circumstances, for example, God is real; Jesus is God; God is good.
What about the children? What beliefs would / should they never give up? This is an opportunity to affirm children in their belief that they are loved. Following discussion, invite the children to re-create either their vision or Bernadette's by using the art materials provided.
Conclusion
Bernadette once said that it would not be possible to make a statue or paint a picture of the lady as she really was, because she was so beautiful. Conclude lesson by asking the children if their pictures are as beautiful as their visions.
Notes
This lesson has been adapted from A Gift to the Child by Grimmett et al. This seminal resource for Early Years R.E., comprising of a teacher's source book, 14 pupils' books and audio cassette is available from Stanley Thorne Publishers. Their customer services line is 01242-577 944.
