ULC Sacred Summer Adventure, Day Two: The Power of Prayer

Objective: By the end of this lesson, the students will understand the concept of prayer, its significance in the Universal Life Church, and how it can be used to make a positive difference in the world.

Materials:

• Whiteboard or flipchart
• Markers
• Printed examples of different prayers (optional)
• Paper
• Pens or pencils

Introduction:

1. Begin by briefly recapping the previous day's lesson on the Universal Life Church principles, emphasizing the importance of love, peace, and understanding.
2. Ask the students if they have ever prayed before and what they think prayer means.

Discussion - Understanding Prayer:

1. Write the word "prayer" on the whiteboard or flipchart and ask the students to share their definitions or ideas about what prayer means to them.
2. Engage the students in a discussion about the purpose and significance of prayer, including its role in connecting with a higher power, finding comfort, expressing gratitude, and seeking guidance.
3. Ask the students if they have any personal experiences with prayer and encourage them to share if they feel comfortable.

Types of Prayer:

1. Introduce different forms of prayer by explaining that prayer can take various forms, such as spoken prayers, silent prayers, written prayers, or even prayers through art or music.
2. Provide printed examples of different prayers from different religious traditions (if available) and discuss their similarities and differences.
3. Emphasize that prayer is a personal and individual practice, and there is no right or wrong way to pray.

Activity - Write a Prayer for Peace or Healing:

1. Distribute paper and pens or pencils to each student.
2. Explain that the students will be writing a prayer for peace or healing.
3. Encourage the students to reflect on their own experiences and the current state of the world when crafting their prayers.
4. Remind them to consider the Universal Life Church principles of love, peace, and understanding while writing.
5. Allow sufficient time for the students to write their prayers, and offer assistance if needed.

Sharing and Reflection:

1. Invite students to share their prayers voluntarily, allowing them to read them aloud if they feel comfortable.
2. After each student shares, encourage the class to offer words of appreciation or reflect on the themes and sentiments expressed in the prayers.
3. Facilitate a discussion about the potential impact of collective prayers on personal well-being and fostering peace and healing in the world.

Conclusion:

1. Summarize the key points discussed during the lesson, highlighting the significance of prayer in the Universal Life Church and its potential to make a positive difference.
2. Reinforce the idea that prayer can be a tool for personal growth, inner peace, and connecting with a higher power.
3. Encourage the students to continue exploring prayer in their daily lives and to be open to the experiences and feelings that may arise.
4. Conclude with a brief guided prayer, allowing students to reflect silently or pray in their own way.

Note: Throughout the lesson, be sensitive to students' diverse backgrounds and beliefs, ensuring inclusivity and respect for different perspectives. Encourage an open and non-judgmental environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences.

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