Within the Church Year, as we keep time with the seasons that correspond with the life of Jesus and the birth of the Church, we are walking currently through the general season of time after Pentecost. In many traditions, it is also referred to as Ordinary Time, which does not correspond with any particular event, but simply focuses on the broad life of the congregation. It is time spent reflecting upon the rhythms of worship, discipleship, and faith.
[pullquote_right width=”50%”]We remember our children as well as the children elsewhere by gathering to worship, praying for their lives and bringing dry goods that will be donated for their benefit.[/pullquote_right]Along with the rhythm of the Church Year, we also keep time with the weekly rhythm of work and Sabbath, gathering to rest and to reflect together in worship. As we think about the life of the congregation and as we gather within the rhythm of Sabbath, we will come together on Sunday, October 20 to celebrate Children’s Sabbath. We will pause to recognize the place that children have in the broad life of the congregation.
We will remember the children amongst us, for listening to them helps us hear again our calling to teach and to nurture, to love and to challenge. Since we are part of the body of Christ that crosses geographical boundaries, we not only recognize the children around us, but we also recall the children around the world. We welcome the children at the doors of the church, but we also pray and share a concern for the children beyond our walls.
We remember our children as well as the children elsewhere by gathering to worship, praying for their lives and bringing dry goods that will be donated for their benefit. It is one practice that helps us remember the needs of all children, widening our prayers for every child. After worship, we will also gather at Town Creek Park to eat and to play, building relationships between every generation of the church, as our children benefit from the wisdom of our seasoned members and as we all benefit from the joyful exuberance of the youngest amongst us.
In addition to offering our prayers and concern for every child, we will also give our children an opportunity to serve. The children will create cards and write letters that will be distributed through our Loaves and Fishes ministry. Our children will learn about this ministry, which feeds people each week, and they will also participate in its work.