(This Article originally appeared in the TAU-USA Summer Issue #106)
Fraternity Life Can Be Puzzling
Putting together a puzzle is a fun fraternity project―and if the puzzle is one that reflects your fraternity or your council, it can provide important insights.
Did you know you can purchase a blank jigsaw puzzle with all white pieces that you can write or draw on? You can also order a jigsaw puzzle that has a custom image. Both types come in various sizes with various number of pieces. You can easily search for these on the internet.
As your fraternity or council gathers, give each member a piece of the puzzle, or several pieces, depending on the size of the puzzle and the group. If it’s a blank puzzle, each one can decorate their piece with words or images that say something about themselves, or what gift they receive from the fraternity. If you choose to order a puzzle with an image, you might choose a group photo of your fraternity or an image that reflects the gift of diversity.
Combine this activity with a reflection on how we are all one in Christ, or how we should celebrate our diversity and what gifts we each bring, and you’ll be providing your fraternity with a fun―and meaningful―formation session.
So, where can I get this puzzle?
Dear Sherrie,
Very good question!! I checked article & noted that not only does it not provide suggested places to get such a puzzle; it doesn’t provide the name of the author – most likely a member of the National Formation Team/Committee.
I submit two possible solutions: 1) check with your local craft store(s) to see if they can provide or suggest where to get such a puzzle; 2) Make your own puzzle – either blank or with a single fraternity photo from fraternity event or a collage of photos. Perhaps a couple members of your Formation Team, if you have a team, or several council members could get together & work on making one – more “family time”. Blank puzzle: white poster board with various shapes drawn on it – make pieces large enough for members to add their own drawing or words & cut out prior to fraternity gathering & distribute at gathering for sharing. For puzzle with photo(s): glue picture(s) to one side of poster board & when thoroughly dry, turn over to blank side; draw puzzle shapes & cut out.
Another option: celebrate a special event from St. Francis’s life or a Franciscan saint/blessed by gluing an enlarged picture on poster board & cutting it into puzzle pieces. Have fun trying to guess which Franciscan person or event is being celebrated while putting puzzle together.
Remember St. Francis was elated to be called, God’s Fool and enjoyed simple pleasures with his brothers.
Peace and Joy,
Terri Leone, OFS for
OFS-USA NEC
You can also get them on Amazon
Thanks Annette.
Terri Leone, OFS