Cross Photography Project
Our children went around our church, taking photos of every cross they could find, not only Christian crosses, but the "hidden crosses -- things that crossed over each other." When they couldn't find any more, they were allowed to MAKE CROSSES of various objects they found around the church.
After reading a short passage focusing only on the crucifixion of Jesus... we separated into groups, and gave each group a digital camera with instructions for each person to share in taking pictures. (We had some cheap digital cameras they could use along with some cellphones they were loaned. An adult went with each group).
The kids were encouraged to have great eyes for finding "hidden" crosses! They even used their bodies to create crosses, just so they could be in the photos. (In a later class, we had the kids move around the building to create "hidden crosses" for people to find. Think "Hidden Mickies.")
When they came back with their photos, we viewed them and discussed the questions you see below.
It's important to remember the CABLES and CORDS for each camera that allow it to be plugged into a larger screen, such as a TV's or Computer's USB port so images could be viewed afterward.
Test your connections/equipment in advance.
After the class, we turned their photos into a "slideshow" that ran on the TV in our Fellowship Hall. The kids thought that was cool and it was a great reminder to them of their lesson. (We used PowerPoint to make this slideshow.)
As the cross was an instrument of both suffering and salvation, the various types of crosses they photographed prompted conversation, points that needed made, and questions.
Here are some of the ones we covered...
- What is a cross?
- Why was Jesus killed on one?
- How does a person actually die by being hung on a cross? (Why nails?)
- Why were they so "mean" to Jesus to kill him that way?
- Why didn't God step in and stop the crucifixion?
- How can a symbol of pain and death become a symbol of life and hope? And what does that say about God's message and work in the world.
- Do you think God chose the cross because it was a shape we can see EVERYWHERE?
- Do you think God is constantly trying to remind us of what he did for us through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection?
- What OTHER ways is God sending us messages?
