Celebration Stars
Traditionally Matariki was a time to remember those who had died, and a time of celebration as crops were harvested and food collected into storehouses. It was a time of singing, dancing and great feasting.
Here are some suggestions to explore together:
1. Reflective Reading:
Read Psalm 136. Have the children read the words in italics:
God who filled the skies with light
God’s love never gives up.
The sun to watch over the day
God’s love never gives up.
Moon and stars as guardians of the night
God’s love never gives up.
God remembers us when we are down
God’s love never gives up.
God takes care of everyone in times of need
God’s love never gives up.
Thank you God
Your love never gives up on me!
Questions to reflect:
a. I wonder which part of the verse you like the best?
b. I wonder which part of the verse is the most important?
c. I wonder which part of the verse you like the least?
d. I wonder if you’re in the verse and where?
Nehemiah 9:6 is another good option for a responsive reading:
You alone are the Lord,
Creator of the heavens
and all the stars,
Creator of the earth
and those who live on it,
Creator of the ocean
and all its creatures.
You are the source of life,
praised by the stars
that fill the heavens.
3. Star Walk: Your love never gives up on me! You will need: pieces of A4 paper, felt pens
Write each word on a separate piece of paper, maybe even draw a star shape on the paper and write the word in it, or decorate the paper with stars. Place the pieces of paper on the floor, manageable footsteps apart. Walk one star at a time, repeating the word on the paper, around the Star Walk.
4. Prayer stars:
You will need: a star template made of thick card, paper, pencils, scissors, a shallow bowl of warm water.
Make stars by drawing around the template and cutting out. Draw or write a prayer in the centre. This could be giving thanks for someone or praying for a particular need. Fold each point of the star over the centre. Place the folded star gently on the surface of the water and watch as the star’s points open up. Talk about prayer being God’s way of changing people’s lives for the better.
5. Star Craft Project:
You will need: 3 pieces of drift wood all about the same size, cardboard, glitter, glue, scissors, string, feathers...
Make a triangle using the driftwood and tied together with string.
Cut out star shapes from cardboard, decorate with glitter and other sparkly things. Attach the stars to the frame. When finished, tie a piece of string to the top of the frame so you can hang it on the wall.
