Easter through the Eyes of a Roman Soldier

Following a successful trial last year Englesea Brook Chapel and Museum is offering an Easter programme for schools this March which will cover the following curriculum areas:

Easter as a major Christian festival set witih the context of a multi-faith society.

Life within the Roman Empire espcially in the first century A.D.

Easter customs which speak of the end of winter and the beginning of new life.

Historical stories which illustrate the victory of good over evil.

The participatory programme will include the following activities:

Experiencing the Easter story: Dressed in biblical costumes (provided by the museum) the children share in the ritualistic washing of a disciple's feet; Pilate washing his hannds of the death of an innocent man; a visit to three crosses and an empty grave. A disciple and a Roman soldier will lead these activities.

Handling Roman aretfacts: Children will handle genuine artefacts including coins, bracelets and medical implements. They will see a Roman oil lamp along with Roman and Celtic spearheads. A child-size replica Roman soldier costume will also be available for use.

Experiencing Easter customs: Pancake and egg and spoon races along with planting seeds reinforce themes of new life and the marking of changing seasons in Christianity and other faiths.

True Good News Stories: From the museum archive comes a true story of Filey fishermen and a German U-boat with a surprisingly happy ending. Seated in a 'donkey cart' from Bulgaria the children will learn about new hope after decades of oppresion during the Cold War.

The programme (10.00 a.m. - 2.00 p.m.) is available throughout March. A shortened half-day session is also available. The charge by the museum is £2 per child. As the programme will run partly out of doors approximately two classes (60 pupils) can be accomodated.