May 3 – Children’s Sabbath – Prayer PALS: Prayers Always Lovingly Said
On Sunday, May 3, we will celebrate the Children’s Sabbath, a day when we as a congregation promise to nurture and pray in support of the children of Hope Church as well as those children with special concerns around the world. We want to celebrate all children on this Sunday and everyday that follows.
The congregation will have the opportunity to select names of children to support and pray for in the coming year. The names of all the children in each family will be included on the Prayer PALS sheet. We hope that this will allow each child in a family to have a similar experience with their Prayer PALS. There will be more information and ideas on how you can convey to those children how important and valued they are to Hope Church. We will also provide cards that may be sent to the family to introduce the adult to the child (ren). Our children are an important and valuable part of our congregation as they share their joy and energy with each of us and we celebrate them. Please note: the 4th and 5th graders will take part in the 11 a.m. service.
Teacher Appreciation Reception, May 17
The Christian Education Ministry invites everyone to the Teacher Appreciation reception for our Children in Worship leaders, Church School teachers, music leaders, and youth leaders. The reception will take place after the 11:00 a.m. service on Sunday, May 17th. After pizza lunch, we hope that everyone will extend their sincere thanks to those who have taught and led our adults, youth and children with a creative, faithful and willing spirit. All leaders, teachers and music leaders will be honored for their service to Hope Church. Hope Church values our educational opportunities and we ask everyone to stay for this short reception to share in the celebration.
Notes of Appreciation
One way to show our thanks is to sign or write a short note on the banner that is available in the Gathering Area on the Sundays prior to the reception. Please spend a few minutes to show your support and appreciation. You will find a listing of all the Children in Worship leaders, Church School teachers, music leaders, and youth leaders and you may write a word of appreciation to them individually or as a whole. Of course you may thank them in person at the reception or send a personal note to them as well.
Church School & Children in Worship
May 17 is the last Sunday for Church School and Children in Worship. The teachers, worship leaders and children have all had a wonderful year learning, worshipping and growing together! The following week, May 24, children ages three through those who have completed second grade will be meeting together in the Youth Room when they are dismissed from the 10 a.m. worship service.
Christian Education Survey
The Christian Education Ministry is looking for some input from families regarding our current offerings and your vision for other opportunities that your family would value. When you are contacted please take some time to complete this survey. We will use the information received in future decisions as we continue to find ways to help nurture the faith formation of you and your family members. It is our hopes that together as a community of families and Hope Church members, teachers, and leaders we will grow in faith together.
~Jocelyn Van Heest, Children’s Ministry Director