Aim

To explore the prayer of St. Francis as a definition of the Christian way of life.

Lesson

Begin by revising what was taught in the previous lesson about the life of Francis. Inform the children that Francis wrote many prayers and songs. One of his most famous prayers begins with the line, 'Make me a channel of your peace.' This prayer is so popular because, for many people, it teaches them what it really means to be a follower of Jesus.

Share with children the words of the prayer in its original and modern versions.

Activity

Following discussion, groups of children could:

• learn the words of the prayer
• learn the song, 'Make me a channel of your peace'
• talk / write about a time when they helped someone else
• talk / write about what it means to be a follower of Jesus