Aim

To consider the meaning of the Jonah narrative.

Lesson

Begin by reviewing what was taught in the previous lesson about Yom Kippur.

During the celebration of Yom Kippur at the synagogue, the Book of Jonah is read.

Share with children the story of Jonah. (It is the shortest book in what Christians call 'The Old Testament'.)

Activity

Following discussion, groups of children could

• write a character description of Jonah / God / the people of Nineveh
• write a modern version of the Jonah story
• interview a Jewish visitor on what the story means to her
• write a letter expressing forgiveness to someone who has wronged them
• read and compare a different version of the story.