Summer ponderings- fulfilling our baptism covenant with the children of Hope Church
As you are spending time this summer contemplating the year to come, include in your ponderings where God might be calling you to ministry. Think about the possibility of becoming involved as a Children in Worship leader, nursery care provider or even a visitor to the worship centers. After worshiping in the centers you may realize that this is a place where you are needed and where you will be able to share your gifts with the children. Nursery care giving is a great place to make connections with the young families of our church and have fun with the littlest members of our church. There can be great flexibility in scheduling and any amount of commitment will be a great service to our children’s ministry. Everyone has something to share with the children and your talents will certainly be appreciated. If you have an interest in participating in the Children in Worship experience of helping in the nursery, contact Jocelyn Van Heest at the church.

Summer Church School
We have had a wonderful summer learning about being part of God’s Family. We have heard stories of Peter and the early church. We have also been discussing way we can be living members of God’s growing family by participating with others as a community. We learn together, share together, meet together, eat together, pray together, share with others and praise God. The children have been reminded to pray for the youth of the church as they hike on the Appalachian Trail and as others are on a mission trip to New York. They will be decorating and filling “Birthday cake bags” with cake, frosting, candles and napkins to be given to the Community Action House for special celebrations. During the month of August, we will be learning about Paul through song, stories and crafts and we will continue to try and make these stories relevant to our lives.

Christian Education Survey
Families with children were sent an opportunity to respond to a survey about the offerings that are available for children, youth and families. We would still value any input of praise, concern or desire for new opportunities that you may have. There are print copies available in the office or you may reply through the online survey at this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/17-gjB0t lBdwNz10b95BAIp4ajU1MWRLL6g USYOSm47M/viewform. Thanks for your sharing your thoughts. We have received some responses that have been very helpful in our planning.