Intergenerational Light

Faith Family,

If I could ever encourage you to do something with your spiritual journey, I would inspire you to look for the glow of the children around you, the very children in our church.

A Sunday morning handshake or high-five as we greet during the service.

The way they dance without worry.

Even the confidence in which they talk during our children’s moments.

These little ones are a source of joy and unobstructed light amongst us all… and you only see half of it.

There is bright light in the church on Tuesday afternoons. Several children gather, local youth come to their aid, and many devoted teachers, leaders and followers of Christ sit with them. The children read books to their adult companion, learn about Godly relationships, and inspire us with their creativity.

We are blessed to be a pilot church for the Project Transformation: After School program. It is a wonderful encouragement for our young friends that intend to improve their reading. They gain far more than that, though; they are building a community in the church and in turn, the community around them is emboldened.

Intergenerational light has been shared.

Wednesdays for the Children’s Ministry have gotten so bright, bring sunglasses for us all! This is more than literal, because there really is a blinding light in the Narthex during our shared meal, but it is spiritually figurative as well.

More than 20 children, sometimes close to 30, gather to eat a homecooked meal and walk in faith together. Serving them is a multigenerational group of women and men, who are manifesting the fruits of their own labor. To see children burst through the doors in excitement is a true joy and to see them greet each other with hugs and pure excitement is incredibly motivating.

This group of children has grown so much that we are able to separate into groups for our lesson (PreK-1st, 2nd-3rd, and 4th-5th) and we have added volunteers to support and encourage their faith – hooray! The chemistry is electric and they may explode when they get a chance to enjoy the NEW playground! It has been overwhelmingly affirming to see children joining us after attending Vacation Bible School last year, and to see our church kids inviting their own friends, who now regularly appear.

Intergenerational light is being shared.

Without a doubt, there is a glow around you, and if you look closely, it is likely to come from the children. They are participating and keeping Jesus alive in this ministry and every chance that we get to be with them, we are fulfilled.

No matter where you are this Lenten season, do not let the darkness take hold. Nothing is as wonderful, as bright, or as sweet, as the sound of their giggles, singing, and questions. I am so proud of every single leader that serves them and am even more grateful for your child(ren), who illuminate my life and give me purpose.

Intergenerational light will be shared.

Peace and Love,

Amber Staehle
Director of Christian Education and Family Life