This day takes different directions depending on the grade level, but for the primary grades, it always begins as a surprise.
On October 10, at 8:05 am, all 163 Kindergarten, First and Second Grade students were informed that it was “Slow Me Down, Lord Day!”
The primary students and their teachers met in the church for an introduction to the day’s theme. On this day the focus was “Gratitude.” They began with a song (Grateful: Love Song to the World), complete with movements and sign language. They were then led in a prayerful meditation (yes, first graders do close their eyes to meditate), picturing in their minds, the loving embrace of Jesus, their best friend.
From the church the students walked quietly to six classrooms which had been set up as stations. Each station had a teacher waiting with a Scripture story or parable to share, a small craft or activity to complete, and another extension of the theme.
After lunch, the day continued with time for reflection, journal writing and illustrating, and visits to the Adoration Chapel. At the end of the day, the students gathered their belongings and memories, along with a letter written to their families, explaining the day’s events, and encouraging them to continue the theme into the weekend.
Many families reported back that “slowing down” was just what was needed. Many teachers went home reflecting on the spiritual discoveries that could only have occurred while “slowing down.” And then, there’s that kindergartener, still humming the morning’s song.