Background Notes

Jesus knew that unless the Father sent the Holy Spirit to the first Christians, his teachings and memory would soon fade. Only God’s Spirit would be able to keep the Gospel message burning in the hearts of Jesus’ followers. The Holy Spirit filled the hearts of the disciples and enabled them to teach and preach with great courage about Jesus of Nazareth and all that took place through his life, death, and Resurrection. The Holy Spirit fills our hearts with the same fervor.


"Thanks for the Spirit" Prayer Celebration Notes

Focus		Becoming aware of the gifts of the Spirit
Materials Needed		Prayer table, Bible, candle, music Click here for a printable PDF of "Thank you, God" in sign language
Reading		Acts 2: 1–4
Music		"We Are One," Blest Are We Music CD 3; "I Will Extol You, O God," Gifts for a Lifetime Music CD
Preparation		Print out and photocopy the liturgy, "Thanks for the Spirit" for each child. Before the prayer celebration practice the sign language response, "Thank you, God" that will be used during the liturgy (see Materials, above.) Practice your role as leader.
Adaptation		You may wish to have children practice saying "Thank you, God" in languages that are part of your local area.
Additional Materials		"We Are One" Blest Are We Music CD 3 Call RCL Benziger at 1-877-ASK-4-RCL (1-877-275-4725). ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36654-9 Blest Are We Song Book Words and melody for children; contains music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36617-4 Blest Are We Accompaniment Book Contains accompaniment music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36618-2 "I Will Extol You, O God" Gifts for a Lifetime Music CD ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36113-X Gifts for a Lifetime Song Book ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36103-2 Gifts for a Lifetime Accompaniment Book ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36104-0