Clubs and societies
To show the benefits of working together
by Jan Edmunds
Suitable for Whole School (Pri)
Aims
To show the benefits of working together.
Preparation and materials
You will need:
- To collect a number of objects that will fall readily into different sets or groups such as fruits, toys, vegetables; items large enough to be seen by all the children.
- Find a table to display them and muddle them up.
- A blackboard and chalk might help to list some points of discussion.
- An OHP would be useful so that the children can follow the poem.
Assembly
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Direct the children’s attention to the objects on the table and, with their help, decide how many groups can be made from them. Choose several children, one for each group, and ask them to collect the objects belonging to their group. This could be made into a little competition to see who finishes first. When the sorting has finished and the groups are defined, ask your helpers to sit down.
- Point out that we each belong to several groups: the human race, our family, our school, our class at school, and so on, etc. We even play in groups or teams.
- Explain that most of us like the feeling of belonging and doing things together. This is how many clubs and societies started. Some pursue an interest such as a sport or hobby. Many of you will already belong to a club or society. Invite the children to tell you about some of their groups: Brownies, Cubs, Homework club, Breakfast Club, Football, after school activities, etc.
- Many well-known clubs and societies have been formed to help others, doing good by helping and raising money for the under-privileged and those in need. Societies such as the NSPCC, the RNLI, the RSPCA, etc.
Perhaps you can name some more. (Allow a short time for response. Topic work in history could have links here.)
- Point out that there are many religions in the world. They have their own clubs and societies, each with their own beliefs. This point could be expanded to comment on the religions within the school.
- In times of trouble and world crisis people work together in groups to provide help and relief for the unfortunate victims. A recent example of this was the wonderful world response for those caught by the dreadful Tsunami in December 2004. Many of you will have supported Red Nose Day, Save the Children, Comic Relief and Sports Relief – groups working together to give help to others whilst giving enjoyment at the same time.
- Explain that in the Bible we are told that Jesus formed a group of disciples to help him spread the word of God. After his death we read that early Christians formed a secret club. They used the sign of the fish as their logo. Ichthus is the Greek word for fish.
I = Jesus, ch = Christ, th = Son, u = Of God, s = Saviour.
(Could be written on board or flip chart.)They had a sign just as many clubs have badges and logos today, but they could not display it openly because of the persecution that ,they as Christians, received.
- So you see clubs are not new. They are a natural development of our desire to belong and work together. In any group a feeling of team spirit and cooperation is needed.
Time for reflection
Reflection:
We all need one another, it’s better than being alone.
By working and caring together many clubs have grown.
They work to make things easier for those who are in need,
Collecting lots of money, the poor to help and feed.
Some exist for charity, some exist for play,
Whatever may be the reason, they’re helping everyday.
Prayer:
Let us think about the many groups who work for the benefit of others and for peace in our world. Help them to be successful in what they do.
We also think of all the groups we belong to, and thank God for everyone involved.
Amen.
Song/music
‘Kum ba yah, my Lord, Kum ba yah’ (Come and Praise, 68)
