A light to show your way: Ideas for Candlemas and the Presentation of Jesus in the temple

The story of Jesus being presented in the temple is full of amazing imagery from Simeon and Anna about light and Jesus' power to set people free.  If you are covering the story this Sunday (and even if you aren't!) here are some ideas to help you...

Activities

Light of the world Sun catchers

Light of the World Play dough Mat

Oil and paper sun catchers 

The Lord is my Light reflective colouring

Prayer activities to bring out the theme of Jesus bringing light and rescue 

Light to the world
Use print outs of world maps or of the local area and use highlighter pens to mark areas on the map. Pray that Jesus will bring his light and hope to those areas.

Candle Prayers
Give each child their own candle. Ask them to think of a situation in the world or their life where there is worry or sadness or loss. Ask Jesus to bring his light to those situations

Bubble wrap worry prayers
Tell God what you are worried about and pop a bubble on the bubble wrap as a sign of giving that worry to God and asking him to help you.

Exploration basket for younger children 

torches, battery operated candles, yellow and black fabrics, yellow and red ribbons on curtain rings, sleep masks, crowns, wax candles, glitter bottles, hearts, foil, globe ball