That time of year is quickly approaching us when we have our children’s sacrament meeting presentations. If you have been preparing all year and know already what you are going to do then maybe you should be writing this blog, (and we welcome all suggestions). If the thought makes you start to panic, relax and take a deep breath, and read on.
First let’s start with what the handbook tells us about the program.
“The annual children’s sacrament meeting presentation gives children an opportunity to share what they have learned in Primary.”
This is the purpose of the program. This is why we can’t just go on the internet and find a pre-written program and have the kids recite it. As much as possible it should be the children’s own words.
“It is normally presented during the fourth quarter of the year.”
Don’t panic. You still have time.
“The Primary presidency and music leader(s) prepare the presentation under the direction of the bishopric.”
Give a copy or detailed outline to the Bishop or the counselor over Primary for approval. Get it to him early enough to make changes if necessary.
“They follow the guidelines in the current outline for sharing time, adapting it as needed to fit the circumstances of the children.”
Use this year’s outline for sharing time for topics. This is what you have been teaching the children all year. Talk to the children to see what they have learned. For the younger children's parts write out what they give as answers and use their own words when writing their parts. Give the older children assignments for talks. If you haven’t already done so, save the talks that the children give during the year to use during the program. Use scriptures and Articles of Faith the children have learned. They can read them or recite from memory.
The program will be very different if you have a large junior primary and small senior primary than if you have many older children. It will also be different if you have a very small primary vs. a large one. Adapt it to your primary.
“In the sacrament meeting, the presentation comes after the administration of the sacrament and may take all or part of the remaining time”
If your program will not take the entire time talk with your Bishop or counselor to let them know so they can be prepared. No one likes surprises in sacrament meeting.
“All Primary children ages 3 through 11 sing songs they have learned in sharing time. Children may also participate by reading or reciting scripture passages, giving talks, singing in small groups, and sharing their testimonies. An adult leader in Primary may also share a brief message.”
Use all these. It keeps it interesting for the parents and the children. Relatives and friends love to hear their children no matter how they are participating. Use all the children in different ways. I my ward the children’s sacrament meeting presentation is the best attended sacrament meeting of the year. Many less active family members and non-member friends attend. The testimony of a child whether in song or spoken is a powerful thing.
Use a sharing time or activity day/cub scout meeting to make invitations the children can give to family, friends, and teachers.
“In keeping with the sacredness of sacrament meeting, the presentation should not include visuals, costumes, or media presentations.”
Make this a spiritual experience for all those attending. Keep the tone reverent. I know this can be hard when there are lots of small children. Have teachers or parents if necessary sit with the children to help keep them reverent. Practice reverence with the children. If they know what is expected of them it will help.
Last, and most important, follow the spirit when preparing your program. You have been set apart for this calling and have the right and privilege to inspiration. The Lord will bless you and guide you if you ask. He wants you and these precious children to succeed.
By Sandy Blackwell
