Catholic Activity: Window Transparencies

Transparent symbols hung in the window are a good reminder for children of the Resurrection throughout the Easter season.

DIRECTIONS

When our children were small we hung colorful Easter transparencies in our windows to bear witness to the Resurrection, much as we hang wreaths or light candles at Christmas. Through constant use and from the interest of baby fingers tracing cross, lilies, angel, and tomb, the transparencies wore out. We miss them a great deal and have never found any others.

Window decorations, using the designs for Easter eggs or for altar hangings, in the section on Symbolism, may be made on 8-1/2 x 11 paper, using crayons or paints. The completed drawing is then shellacked and placed in a construction paper frame. These decorations and others of children's own design make delightful Easter presents for them to give.

EASTER: A circle or ring speaks of eternity in that it has no beginning and no end. It is the monogram of God, representing His perfection. Color: white.

ASCENSION: The crown stands for the victory of Christ. Color: gold.

PENTECOST: The dove is the symbol of the Holy Spirit. Its symbolism first appears in the baptism of Jesus. "I saw the spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon Him" (John 1:32). Color: red.

TRINITY: The equilateral triangle represents the eternal, equal and indivisible Trinity. Three equal circles in triangle form are the monogram of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Color: white.

Activity Source: Family Customs: Easter to Pentecost by Helen McLoughlin, The Liturgical Press, Collegeville, Minnesota, 1956