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Markkula Center for Applied Ethics

Faith Formation

Build. Plant. Grow. is a free faith formation program for schools, parishes, and families. Engaging lesson plans pair scriptural readings with children's literature and experiential education.

Build. Plant. Grow. aims to promote the spiritual and character development of children ages 5 to 13 years.

Using each lesson plan, directors of religious education, school teachers, and parents can:

  • Use the recommended key discussion points when reading weekly messages with your children.
  • Read aloud a classic picture storybook linked to the moral virtue in the weekly readings.
  • Manage creative activities including arts and crafts, games, and gardening projects.
  • End with a reflection activity using a case study and a prayer.

Build. Plant. Grow. aligns with the Liturgical Year of the Roman Catholic Church. Complete texts of the reading passages are available at the United States Conference of Catholic BishopsConstruye. Planta. Crece. is the Spanish language version.

This program may be adapted for use in different settings and faith traditions.

Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat what they produce...multiply there and do not decrease. But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare, you will find your welfare.  - Jeremiah 29:5-7

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