The Mystery of Life and Death

Last Sunday, the younger Faith Formation students reflected on the mystery of life and death in light of the Lenten season and the approaching celebration of Easter. They heard one of Jesus’ shortest but most profound parables from John 12:24:

“Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.”
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The class then observed how a seed must be buried in the earth to grow into something new by gently uncovering soil in small pots to see sprouted seeds, and then marveled at a full wheat stalk. This helped the children understand that though the seed changes form, it continues in a new and greater way—just like Jesus, who gave His life and rose with a new, eternal life. The session concluded with a hands-on seed planting activity. Each child planted seeds for vegetables which will be transplanted into the raised- bed garden in the spring. As Lent continues, the children are learning to recognize signs of hope and new life, preparing their hearts to celebrate Easter—Jesus’ victory over death and the promise of eternal life.  
More about this lesson here.

The older students went deeper into this reflection through Scripture, tradition, and action.They discussed the meaning of transformation and how Christ’s death brings eternal life. They then began a new outreach project: launching a vertical hydroponic garden at church. This garden will grow fresh produce year-round, which the children will donate or sell to raise funds for those in need—turning their reflection into meaningful service.  To conclude, they prepared Koliva, a traditional wheat-based dish used in Orthodox memorial services, and brought it to share with the younger children. Through reflection, tradition, and concrete acts of service, our Level III students are deepening their understanding of the Paschal Mystery and embracing their call to bring life to others.