Child-friendly Easter Vigil readings

When I sent out the message weeks ago about what I might have available for use by congregations I got some humorous (and not UNexpected) reactions wanting help with the Easter Vigil. I have always, always loved the service with one reservation. The readings were long and dry, very dry (at least as dry as the dry bones!). Not that I'm an example of patience, far from it... but kids are just not wired to sit there and do nothing while some adult is at the lecturn droning on and on about something that is supposed to get us excited.

Below find my reworking of some suggested readings which I concocted for this past Easter vigil @ my parish, St. Bartholomew's in White Plains, NY.

Draw the kids "up front" to gather around. When possible, use several readers to keep interest. The delivery should decidedly be a bit 'theatrical' (read animated). In the instance of "Red Sea", paraphrase it to get participation from the kids after the first go-round with Pharoah....Moses said: and Pharoah said: . By the 2nd or 3rd go-round, the kids are screaming the responses enthusiastically....

I also would encourage kids being up close and personal during the kindling of the new fire and maybe accompanying the deacon on either side into the church....

Here are the readings:

CREATION STORY (FOR EASTER VIGIL)
THE FLOOD
THE SACRIFICE OF ABRAHAM
THE PASSAGE THROUGH THE RED SEA
VALLEY OF THE DRY BONES

Please send your feedback 'cause a little ole deacon like me needs that to keep on track and know what is headed out is what is needed. The usual procedure - if you use it, just give an attribution.

Keep an eye peeled, Christmas pagent is on the way... well, maybe 2 different ones..

Later! In Christ's service (and yours), DJ

Copyright © 2005 K.L.Joanna Depue and Deacon J on The Geranium Farm.org