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Art is an excellent way to connect cross-culturally. It easily crosses any boundaries of language and becomes a language unto itself. I use art as a "guided meditation" to help children (and the mothers) to express their experiences and to name God present in their circumstances. As I often say to the women and children in my mediocre Spanish: I do not have enough words in Spanish to express my love and concern for you, but through art we can have a conversation that we all can understand. I provide basic steps and show a sample related to the project. Then everyone interprets and expresses as desired. I let them know that there are no rules when Pastor Helen does art. Have fun. Use any of the supplies that you would like. Express what is on your heart.
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There are LOTS of options for art-making. |
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Punch tools in various shapes are popular with the kids. |