As we begin the month of October, we look forward to gathering for worship on Pledge Sunday, October 6 as well as for Children’s Sabbath, October 13. On Children’s Sabbath, our children will lead us in worship, which is always a good reminder of the importance of our commitment to the future of our congregation! We are thankful for the faith formation of our children, and we offer encouragement and care to their families during these important years of development.
The children of the church remind us of the abundance of God’s grace. They see the world with different eyes, and they help us see the love of God that surrounds us. They always show us that God is at work, as they see the best in others, raise vital questions, and spark joy inside of us. We recommit our dedication to them each year, as they provide leadership for us in worship.
They also call us to our best! We strive for excellence because we are grateful for them. We are aware that our lives model for them a life of faith. We lean into our calling as we also learn from them about a childlike faith, which Jesus invites us to model.
In recent years, our children’s department has grown! Each and every child is a gift. We want to be fully present to them whether it is when we stop them in hallway to ask them about school or whether they are leading us in worship. We will celebrate them on Children’s Sabbath, recognizing what they mean to our family of faith!
After worship, we will gather at Town Creek Park for our annual churchwide picnic, which is for all ages in the congregation. We will enjoy a potluck lunch, and there will be activities and games for the children. We will give thanks for their laughter and energy. It will continue our celebration and time together!
-Tripp