Create vocabulary cards with different names of saints, sins or Biblical characters. Instead of only making one card with each name, make two so students can play the memory game. Make a Velcro board that can be hung on the wall in the front of the room, and stick a piece of Velcro on each card. Ask one student at a time to come to the Velcro board and turn over two cards. As each card is matched together, remove them. Discuss the topic on the card before moving onto the next player's turn.
Another variation of the game is to write a word on one card and its definition on a corresponding card. Ask the students to match the word to the definition. Divide the class into two to three teams and keep score to see who can match the most cards.
This activity is a variation on the popular game of charades. Write the name of a different saint on separate index cards. Hand each student in the class a complete list of the the saints. Ask one student at a time to stand in front of the class and choose a card. The student must then act out the name on the card using only hand motions, while the rest of the class tries to guess the saint. For instance, a student could act out delivering a piece of mail to signify St. Gabriel, the saint of mail carriers. Allow the class to use the list as a reference. After the correct name is guessed, discuss with the class that person's role in religion. The goal is to help students understand each of the saints.
This activity is designed to learn about religious services. Draw two columns on the white board. In the first, write all of the different parts of the service. These will vary depending on the denomination. Split the students into two teams. Ask one member from each team to come to the board. Describe a part of the service. The first student to choose the correct portion from the list receives one point. Continue with the service description. As each part is selected, discuss it with the students so they understand its purpose and importance. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins.
Singing is always a good way to teach children, teenagers and adults the meaning of God and religion. Use the Catechisms to create a song for children. The Internet also has a variety of religious songs that can fit into the teachings of the Catechisms. Choose songs to fit different times of the year or holidays, such as Christmas or Easter. Sing the song with the class. After finishing, break down the song, and discuss with the students each line so that they understand the meaning of the words. Start each class with a song as an ice breaker or end the class with a song as a way to wrap up that day's lessons.