Before I get into all of the exciting things that have happened in Commonway Kids, I want to share just how amazing our volunteers are that work with our kids. They diligently come in each month, giving their time and energy to pour into the spiritual, physical, and often emotional well-being of the children. These people are crucial to partnering with our families and make a huge difference in the lives of our children. I am so grateful for each of you! If you serve (or have served) in children’s ministry – THANK YOU! We are always looking for ways to plug people into this ministry, so let me (Jill) know if you’re interested in giving one Sunday a month to ministering to our children!
November was a great month in Commonway Kids. Our preschoolers spent the month learning that God has a plan for them, and He cares about every detail of their lives. Our elementary class focused on looking how Jesus served others here on earth. We were able to put our own service into action by spending one Sunday filling shoe boxes full of toys, hygiene items, and supplies to send to children all around the world through Operation Christmas Child. In addition to filing the 95 shoe boxes, we put together gifts to take to our friends at a local nursing home. It’s been so much fun to continue to build relationships with many of the residents there. Early in December, we were able to spend time with these residents making a craft, singing some songs, and sharing the gifts we made. We really hope that our children continue to look for practical ways to serve others as a reflection of Jesus’ love for all people!
December is a full and fun month, too! We are currently working on some Christmas songs that the preschool and elementary classes will be singing during the main service on December 20. They are doing such a great job, and they are excited to be able to share this gift with the adults of Commonway! You won’t want to miss this Sunday!
All through the month, our preschoolers are looking at the Christmas story, and they are bringing home a piece of their Story Sparklers each week! Each “sparkler” will help the children be able to retell the story of Jesus’ birth! In the elementary class, we are challenging our students to a Triple Dog Dare – A Challenge in Compassion! We are asking our kids to look around them and find opportunities to show compassion to those around them. God showed the greatest act of compassion when He sent us Jesus!
We have also tried to find a way to help our families celebrate Advent at home. A small and simple Advent bag was sent home with each family with a reading to do each day in anticipation of the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth. We’d love to hear stories of how families are using this at home!
Whether Commonway is familiar to you or not, we would love for you join us for Christmas Eve service at 5:30! The service will be family friendly, meaning children of all ages are welcome to worship together with their families. We will have child care options available for younger children, though, in case that would be a better fit for your child that evening. Whatever the case may be, we invite you to join us for this special evening!
