Aim

To understand that giving thanks is an important part of being human

Lesson

Begin by discussing the children's summer holidays. For what events during their holidays are they most thankful?

For what other more general things, do the children feel thankful? List these.

• To whom do they owe thanks for these things?
• How can they express their thanks to these people?
• When have the children forgotten to say thanks?
• Or when have others neglected to thank them?
• How did it feel?
• Why is it important to say thanks?

Share with the children the story of Jesus and the Ten Lepers (Luke 17:11-19).

Activity

Following discussion of the story, the children could

• write thank you letters / cards / prayers
• write an imaginary letter as one of the lepers
• count a 100 blessings
• read the Graces which many Christians say before or after their meals.