Prayer Celebration Directions

Leader		We have four small items on display. Look at each one and think about how it is used. These objects are not very big, but they can do a lot. Cup  This is a small cup, but full of water it can help save a person’s life. Candle  The candle is small, but it can light up a dark room when there is no electricity. Acorn  This acorn is small, yet it can grow into a huge oak tree. Postage stamp  This stamp is tiny, but it can take a letter across the entire country. Today we remember a very special person, Elizabeth Ann Seton. She wanted children to learn about Jesus, so she opened the first Catholic school for children in the United States. She also became the first American saint.
Leader		Listen to these words from the Gospel of Matthew in the Bible: Jesus’ friends asked him, "Who is greatest in heaven?" Jesus called a child over to him and said, "To enter the kingdom of heaven, you must become like a child." (based on Matthew 18:1–3)
PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATES Call each child by name. Give each a certificate and say, "[Name,] you are a special gift from God."
CLOSING PRAYER
Leader		Thank you Lord, for sending us St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. She made a big difference in our world because of her great love for you. Help us to remember that even as children, we are each special. Help our love for you to grow.
All		Amen.
CLOSING SONG