Children are “central” to God and therefore, “Children are Central” in our church! Opportunities for children to be involved in faith development experiences occur not only on Sunday and Wednesday, but on special occasions, holidays, and at LOTS of summer events. Church goals this year emphasize interacting with ALL generations. This is especially important for children who (in our current highly mobile, often over-committed society) are frequently over stimulated, stressed, and lacking time and focus for the really important things, namely Faith and Family.
Lent is a good time to change that focus. But we must be intentional and make concrete plans to accomplish this. This afternoon, folks are gathering to work on our Central Family Quilt. This is all generations within a family making a quilt square that illustrates their family values and interests. This project was begun at the January Family Camping Retreat, but as the project moved forward, we realized that others who were unable to attend the retreat should and would like to be included. All quilt squares MUST be returned to the church by Easter Sunday. We’re hoping to display our creation on Pentecost!!
Each Sunday (year ro
und) families gather at Central for Bible study at 9:30, just before worship at 10:45. In small groups, boys and girls learn that God loves them and explore what the Bible says about how to live and thrive in His world. Adults attend Bible study groups or Lifetree Cafe, a video-discussion activity, that is set in a small coffee house atmosphere. Many who attend Lifetree Cafe are new to “church” but feel welcomed to come and simply be themselves.
Another opportunity exists during Lent to reach out to a group that uses our church facilities during the week. A group will soon be gathering to begin making Easter surprises for the Head Start children who come to our campus each day for physical and intellectual growth. Here’s a chance for us to share Christian love with families who may not be connected to a church.
Spring planting is also happening this week in the children’s garden plot in the corner between Adams Hall and the Marchman Building. On Wednesday during Shine! kids will be adding plantings to help beautify Central’s campus. Each week at 6:00 p.m., elementary age kids participate in various performing arts activities and are currently preparing to ring hand bells on Easter Sunday in worship.
Vacation Bible School, Summer Over-night Camp, and Performing Arts Camp dates are set for school vacation time in 2014. Families can utilize these activities to help children focus on developing their talents as well as using those gifts and talents to glorify God. These special summer events begin as early as the very first week after public school closes. Check out other articles on this site for more information and call the church office for updates/registration details.
ALL are welcome at Central! This is “YOUR PLACE TO BELONG!”
