Fall into Children’s Ministry
by Anastasia Rodgers
As the cooler fall weather seems to have finally found us, we can marvel in the beauty of God’s creation. We can be a part of God’s creation through community here at Epiphany!
In WHIRL Sunday School this last week I asked the kids to step into our gathered circle if fall is their favorite season. An overwhelming number of the kids responded by saying that fall is indeed their favorite! Here I am wondering, why? Perhaps it is because kids are back to school and into their solid rhythm of a routine again. Parents tell me all the time that is why fall is their favorite! Maybe it’s because of cooler weather, leaves changing color, and fall sports. Maybe fall is their favorite, like me, because we have picked up the pace in Children’s Ministry, and the kids are excited for what is happening and what is coming.
At the Far Hills Campus this fall brought the launch of Outdoor Sunday School for the month of September. We had a fantastic time exploring the week’s Bible story, followed by a variety of hands-on activities that related to the week’s theme. And the best part — we were outside and got to participate in some extra silly activities!
WHIRL Sunday School has moved back inside now through November 20. The kids love to watch the animated video, with characters who put the bible story into a “real-life” current context for kids. Our Sunday School teachers are pretty fun, too!
Epiphany’s third, fourth, and fifth graders were presented their very own WHIRL Bible two weeks ago. The full NRSV bibles are color-coded, show the seasons of the church year, and will help kids grow in their faith!
Just as the cooler weather returned, so did LIGHT — Life in God, Hope for Tomorrow, an inter-generational and family-oriented Sunday School at Austin Campus. New this fall, LIGHT will take place every Sunday now through December 18 at 9:45 a.m. in the Austin classroom. The response has been great! We have already had kids in attendance as young as 6 months all the way to adults of many ages. All are welcome at LIGHT, so I hope you’ll find an opportunity to join us.
Children’s Choir rehearsals begin this week for kids ages three through fifth grade. I am especially looking forward to the exciting movement, singing, and smiles that the kids will
bring to worship. Children’s Choir is a fantastic way for kids to meet one another for fellowship, learn about music, and then share their gifts with others, all while singing praise to God. It’s not too late to register your child! Soon you’ll see us in worship!
At the end of the month all are invited to join in the Fall Family Fun Festival! On Friday, October 28 from 5:30-7:30 p.m., we will gather for fun fellowship at Austin Campus. There are plenty of fall activities planned, and we will even share a potluck dinner. Trunk-or-Treat is always a highlight, and we are still in need of trunks! Come in costume or not, I hope to see you there.
At Epiphany, kids, and sometimes their parents, are gathered together and led by some wonderful people. Those who volunteer with Children’s Ministry, in front of kids or behind the scenes, do a lot to make sure that our children are nurtured and loved. Thank you, volunteers! If you are interested in serving with Children’s Ministry in any capacity, please contact me. There are endless ways to shine your light as a volunteer!When the beauty of crisp falling leaves has faded, we will transition into a fluffy snowy winter. God’s creation can remind us that in all seasons of life, we are a beautiful and loved part of God’s creation. How will you fall into this season?
It’s harvest time, come gather with us.
It’s harvest time, come gather with us.
Be on the lookout and save the dates for these coming events:
- Children’s Ministry Family Outings (Coming Soon!)
- Thanksgiving Worship & Pie Fest (Tuesday, November 22)
- Christmas Party (Sunday, December 18, 2-4 p.m.)
- Caroling at Bethany Village (Monday, December 19, 9:45 a.m.)
- Winter/Spring Sunday School start (Sunday, January 8)
- Lock-In for 3rd-5th Grades (March 10-11)
- Lock-In Lite for K-2nd Grades (April 22)