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Prayer CenterArrange a focal point with symbols that express the presence of the Word of God and communicate a sense of the sacred. Set up a prayer center with these%u00a0supplies:%u2022small table, prominently placed%u2022cloth table cover, changed to reflect each liturgical%u00a0season%u2022Bible%u2022small plant or flowers%u2022one or more of the following: bowl of holy water, crucifix, religious image or statue%u2022battery-operated candlePrepare a Welcoming EnvironmentWhen Jesus planned a special meal with his Apostles during Passover, he sent Peter and John ahead of him, saying, %u201cGo and make preparations for us.%u201d (Luke 22:8) In the same way, preparing the physical space for faith formation is important. Although you may not be able to choose your meeting space, you can take steps to make it welcoming.No matter your environment, give families a sense of belonging where they can be comfortable learning and sharing. The best way to support and encourage any group is to have a welcoming spirit. Greet parents and children at the door as they arrive. %u2022 Arrive 20%u201330 minutes early to prepare the space and to center yourself. If you are rushed and frantic, the participants will feel the same; likewise, if you are calm and relaxed, that tone will be reflected in the room.%u2022 Arrange the chairs so that each has an unobstructed view of the screen on which the slideshow presentation will be projected.%u2022 Place handouts, name tags, or other materials on a table near the entry. Using preprinted name tags will make it easy for you to see at a glance who is not present. Consider affixing the name tags to meeting materials so they can be retrieved by the participants later.%u2022 If possible, make all aspects of your environment consistent from month to month. Parents and children will find comfort in returning to a familiar space.%u2022 Consider providing light snacks and drinks, such as coffee and water, but be aware of any food allergies.www.christourlife.com OV-17 Christ Our Life Family Catechesis Leader GuideTHE EFFECTIVE LEADER%u00a9 All rights reserved.SAMPLE5856