From the Pastor's Pen

Dear friends,

I met with a small group this week to talk about starting a music club for children this fall.  Anna was there and began the meeting by asking what our vision was.  Why did we think we should create this new ministry?  She turned to me to answer.  I paused only long enough to take a breath.  I knew exactly why I thought this ministry was important.

First, I said, there are lots of kids and families in our world today who don’t have a church home and a church family.  In fact they are lots of families who have never been inside a church and know nothing about Jesus or God or the joys of belonging to a faith community.  It’s our job to tell them about Jesus and to invite them in.  Everyone around the table nodded.  Then I added that I thought music was a terrific gift to give a child.  Lots of families can’t afford music lessons, but we can offer them for free.  We can also offer a safe place for children to play and make friends and dare to do something new like standing up in front of people to sing.  More nods around the table.  We were on the same page.  We are planning a new kids program for the fall called Music and More Club.

It occurred to me later that the reasons we want to offer a children’s music ministry are a lot like the reasons we want to offer a summer Vacation Bible School.  What a great opportunity for children and families to get a taste of what it’s like to be part of caring church family!  What a great chance for kids to make new friends, try some new skills, and hear about our God who loves us all! 

Bible School is one of those golden summer opportunities that should not be missed.  I did not get to go to Bible School as a child, but I have been participating as an adult leaders every summer for over 30 years.  I still love it.  I love the music and the fun.  I love the chance to be with the children in a relaxed, happy environment.  I love sharing God with the children.

I hope you will hold our Vacation Bible School in your prayers this coming week, and if you haven’t invited a child to our Bible School next week (July 20 – 22) put your thinking caps on and take a chance.  Invite a child to have a wonderful week with our church.

Peace,

Pr. Sally