What is a Saint? Do we have them?
From Special Times by Betty Jo Middleton

Goal:
To become familiar with the idea of a “saint.” To learn about some of the deeds of the Christian saints and to appreciate the qualities of living that we consider important.

Preparation: Read Background

Materials:
felt rectangle (approximately 9” X12”) and smaller assorted color felt pieces
Dowels 1/8” or 1/4” wide, and 91/2” long
Scissors
Paper, poster board or cardboard, pencils (for making patterns)
Glue
Yarn to trim ends of dowels for banner

Activities:
1. Learn about some of the Christian saints on the internet (www.abcgallery.com/saints.html) or www.domestic-church.com (click on “saints” button, then “symbols” for symbols of different saints) or with children’s books such as: The Children’s Book of Saints by Louis M. Savary, Francis, the Poor Man of Assisi by Tomie DePaola, Jeanne d’Arc by Aileen Fisher, Patrick of Ireland by Wilma Pitchford Hays, or Saints, Signs and Symbols by W. Ellwood Post (for symbols of different saints).

2. Talk about the symbols that are associated with well-known saints like St.Valentine—heart, St.Nicholas—Christmas tree, St.Patrick—shamrock.

3. Read one or more stories of Unitarian Univesalist “saints.”

4. Ask kids to think of someone they know who does especially good things. What sign or picture might stand for the things that person does? (ie: knitting needles for grandma)

5. Make a banner to honor the person you have chosen:

Draw the sign or picture that symbolizes the person you chose on the poster board or cardboard. Cut the picture out to use as a pattern.

Trace the pattern on the 9” X 12” piece of felt, then cut felt pieces to fill it in. You could use the pattern to cut a single piece, or cut several pieces of different shapes and colors. Glue the shapes on to create your symbol.

Turn over the top edge of the banner and stitch, or glue, so you have a 1/4” pocket along the entire edge. Let dry. Insert the dowel.

Decorate the ends of the dowel with yarn.