trinityKids Annual Christmas Pageant

 

December 17^th, 2011

trinitykids Annual Christmas Pageant

the Advent Gospel

Performed by

(in alphabetical order)

Tessa & Toby Allers

Audrey & Sloane Balicki

Joel, Jonah, & Joseph Brock

Eli Burke

Mia Dolinger

Ella Engle

Evan & Liam Frilingos

Caid & Schuyler Heflin

Joey Johnson

Sarah Madlem

Finn & Scout McDaniel

Amelia & Hannah Perkins

Pressley Perkins

Bella & Oliver Reardon

Bela Rocha

Owen Siller

Will Sinclair

Josiah Strickland

Flora Tyler

Aidan & Skylar Van Tyle 

Jack & Bodie Vepraskas

Anna & Jill Yoder

Special thanks to

Jen Jones, Emily Braund, & Corrie Madlem

Marty Reardon & the Worship Musicians

Glen Sutton

All of the supportive

parents & families of the children

Thank you!

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given… and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, 

Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Advent IV- The Wise Men (Dec. 18th)

Season of the Church Year: Advent (purple) 

Story in Scripture: Matthew 2: 1-12

As we have learned together through the weeks of Advent, we have followed the journey of the Prophets, Mary and Joseph, and the Sheperds. This week, we celebrate the inclusion of the three “Wise Men” in God’s Gospel story. These learned men were charged by King Herod to find the Christ child that had been prophesied. We know that King Herod intended to destroy his “competition,” once they found out where the baby was. One of the most significant aspects of this story is that the Wise Men were experts in their various areas of academia- they were perhaps the most skeptical of those that visited Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. Yet they worship him, acknowleding his divinity. What a beautiful illustration of how knowledge and mystery can both manifest in our faith and understanding of who God is. As Advent draws us closer and closer to Christmas morning, I pray that your families will take time each day to be still and quiet, relishing the anticipation of the celebration of the birth of Jesus. In joyfully welcoming Christmas, we have the opportunity to also look forward to and await the Resurrection and God’s glorious redemption. Praise be to God! Many resources are still available for checkout in the trinityKids Advent Library in the Gathering Room.

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder what the Wise Men were thinking when Herod sent them to find the baby Jesus?

These men were very smart and had learned about a lot of things- the stars, history, the natural world… I wonder if they had learned about what the prophets said about Jesus? I wonder how they felt when the realized that the prophets words were true?

I wonder what their journey to Bethlehem was like? I wonder what they brought with them as they traveled?

I wonder what they thought they would find when they arrived in Bethlehem? Do you think they were expecting to find the King of the World as a baby in a manger?

Prayer:

“Dear God, thank you for the story of the Wise Men. We know that you are with us as we learn, as we wonder, and as we ask questions. We are so glad that you have included us in the story of Jesus’ birth. As Christmas gets closer, help us to remember that we are so blessed to celebrate that you have come to be with us and that you provide all that we need. Amen.” 

Advent III- The Shepherds (Dec. 11th)

Season of the Church Year: Advent (purple) 

Story in Scripture: Luke 2: 15-20 

This week is the week that we celebrate the role of the Shepherds in the Christmas story. These men were literally on the very outskirts of community when God included them in this incredble story. They were considered unclean, separate, and apart. As important as their work was in the culture of the time, the way in which they worked was not respected as you might think it should be. And yet, in that amazing moment, and angel of God appeared to them. In our storytelling, we explain: “They were afraid. Their hearts were beating so loudly. When they could hear something besides their own hearts, they thought they heard singing in the sky! That also scared them until they heard the words of the song. The angels were singing, “Do not be afraid.” Angels often say that, because it is scary to have a messenger of God come to you. The angels singing sounded something like this: “Don’t be afraid. We bring you tidings of great joy. Peace on earth and good will to everyone. A Child is born. Go. Hurry. Run to Bethlehem to see the Child who will change everything.” How wonderful it is that God includes us all, even those on the periphery, in His story. Whether others consider us worthy, God does. At the risk of being redundant, may I encourage you to create an atmosphere of preparation in your home during this Advent season. It’s easy to focus on the planning and busy-ness of Christmas presents and family visits. Spending intentional time reading what the prophets said about Jesus’ coming, praying quietly to know the ‘way to go,’ and focusing our thoughts on the glory of Jesus’ birth will make space for the importance of Christmas as we begin Advent. Then the Christmas presents and family visits can be truly enjoyed in the context of the miracle of Jesus’ birth and our salvation through Him. Remember, there are many resources available for checkout in the trinityKids Advent Library in the Gathering Room.

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder how the Shepherds must have felt when they first saw the angel?

I wonder if they thought they were dreaming?

I wonder what they talked about after the angels were gone?

I wonder what they expected to find when they got to Bethlehem?

Last week, we talked about Mary and Joseph on the long a difficult road to Bethlehem… I wonder what was difficult about the journey of the Shepherds?

I wonder why God decided to include the Shepherds in the story of Jesus’ birth?

Prayer:

“Loving Father, thank you for the story of the Shepherds. We know that you want all people to be a part of your story. We are glad that you want us to be a part of your family, even when we don’t think we deserve to be. Christmas is coming, Father! Help us to get our hearts ready to celebrate and be glad. Jesus is coming!! Amen.” 

Advent II- The Journey to Bethlehem (December 3rd)

Season of the Church Year: Advent (purple) 

Story in Scripture: Micah 5: 2, 4-5

As we continue to prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Jesus, we focus on the Journey to Bethlehem. Today, your child and their classmates talked about the hardships suffered by Mary and Joseph as they traveled. The children are often incredulous about the fact that Mary traveled so far while very pregnant. The donkey that accompanied them played an integral role in their safe arrival in Bethlehem, didn’t he? After discussing that the Prophets pointed the way toward Bethlehem, we travel alongside Mary and Joseph (and the donkey!) on this exhausting and trying journey. The trip is full of uncertainty, wonder, and excitement. Of course, we know that things continue to be challenging once they arrive in Bethlehem- we can only imagine! But this week, we draw our attention to the journey. God was with Mary and Joseph along their way and he is with us as well when we travel through strange, confusing, and often difficult times. What a beautiful example Mary and Joseph are to us- they walked out in faith onto a terrifying and uncertain path, knowing thay God was by their side and giving them strength to sustain the passage! Again, I encourage you to create an atmosphere of preparation in your home during this Advent season. It’s easy to focus on the planning and busy-ness of Christmas presents and family visits. Spending intentional time reading what the prophets said about Jesus’ coming, praying quietly to know the ‘way to go,’ and focusing our thoughts on the glory of Jesus’ birth will make space for the importance of Christmas as we begin Advent. Then the Christmas presents and family visits can be truly enjoyed in the context of the miracle of Jesus’ birth and our salvation through Him. Remember, there are many resources available for checkout in the trinityKids Advent Library in the Gathering Room.

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder what it must have been like for Mary to go on such a difficult journey?

I wonder how Joseph was feeling about all that was happening? Do you think he was nervous or scared?

I wonder what other people passing along the way though when they saw Mary and Joseph traveling to Bethlehem?

I wonder if Mary and Joseph were thinking about the words of the Prophets while they traveled along? I wonder if Mary was remembering what the angel told her about this baby?

Prayer:

“Dear God, we are so very thankful for the story of Mary and Joseph. It’s hard to imagine what it must have been like to travel on the road to Bethlehem, but we know that you were with them. We are on a journey too, and we are glad that you are with us also. Help us to think about you during this Advent time; we want our hearts to be ready for Jesus’ birthday on Christmas! Thank you for your son and for loving us so much. Amen.”

Advent I- The Prophets (November 27th)

Season of the Church Year: Advent (purple) 

Story in Scripture: Isaiah 35: 1-10

This week, we begin the season of Advent, a time of preparation for the coming of Jesus. Advent is also a special time to learn more about the world as it was when Jesus was born and to better understand the importance of his coming. The first week is spent focusing on the Prophets who foretold of Jesus’ coming. When explaining the role of a prophet to children, we describe them as people who were so so so very close to God that they were listening for his whisper, his shout, his command at all times. They were listening carefully so that they could share what God had to say with the rest of the world. Simply put, “Prophets are the people who know the most important things. They know which way to go. They are the ones who showed us the way. The prophets were so important because they helped the world begin to get ready. Without their words, we may not have been looking toward Bethlehem. Now we can go to Bethlehem too.” This week, I encourage you to create an atmosphere of preparation in your home. It’s easy to focus on the planning and busy-ness of Christmas presents and family visits. Spending intentional time reading what the prophets said about Jesus’ coming, praying quietly to know the ‘way to go,’ and focusing our thoughts on the glory of Jesus’ birth will make space for the importance of Christmas as we begin Advent. Then the Christmas presents and family visits can be truly enjoyed in the context of the miracle of Jesus’ birth and our salvation through Him. 

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder what it must have been like for the prophets to hear God’s whisper… his shout… his command?

I wonder if the prophets were surprised that Jesus would come in the way that he did?

I wonder what it must have been like when the prophets shared what they heard with the people?

Do you think everyone believed them? Do you think some people were confused?

Many people expected God to come in a different way- like a soldier in an army. Do you think they were surprised when the prophets said he would come as a little baby?

Prayer:

“Father, thank you for the prophets. We are so glad that they showed us the way to go. They pointed the way to Bethlehem. Thank you for this special time of getting ready for Christmas. Help us to remember that Christmas is a holy time of celebration- it’s Jesus’ birthday! Please remind us that Christmas is not about presents, but about the coming of your son into the world. Amen.”  

The Ten Best Ways to Live (October 30th & November 6th)

Season of the Church Year: Common Time/ “Great Green Growing” Season  (green)

Story in Scripture: Exodus 19-20; Deuteronomy 6:4-6

The Ten Commandments are such a pivotal message in the Old Testament. As Moses returned from Mount Sinai, he brought with him and whole new way of being in the world. God’s framework for our lives, in communion with him and one another are so important. When we teach the children about them, we divide them into two main groups. We must consider ways that God tells us to love him and ways that God tells us to love one another. This is the way we phrase the scripture (with a few notations about how they are explained): 1. Do not serve other Gods. (He is our one true God, the creator of all things and our Father.) 2. Make no idols to serve. (God should come first in your life. Always. Nothing should be more important than him.) 3. I am God… do not speak my name lightly. (When we speak to and about God, we must remember that he is powerful, mighty, and BIG. We should be respectful.) 4. Keep the Sabbath holy… to rest and remember the gifts of creation. (Even God rested! We should find time to be quiet and calm.) 5. Honor your father and your mother. (God gave us these people to protect, care, and provide for us. We should always treat them with love.) 6. Do not kill. (Remember that even Jesus treated those who tortured him with peace and love. God doesn’t want us to kill others and take away his gift of life.) 7. Do not break your marriage. (God intends for families to stay together. He knows that families need one another, husbands & wives must love and respect one another and care for their families.) 8. Do not steal. (We should never take something that doesn’t belong to us.) 9. Do not lie. (When we are honest with our words and our actions, we are following God’s plan for our lives.) 10. Do not even want what others have. (We must be grateful for what we have and be thankful instead of jealous.)

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder how it feels to be free, to be able to do anything you want to? 

I wonder how it feels to be able to do anything you want, but you don’t know what to do?

I wonder if it’s hard to be free?

I wonder how Moses felt going up the holy mountain?

I wonder what Moses and God talked about?

I wonder if it’s hard to love God and love people?

Prayer:

“Lord, we are thankful for your Law. You have given us a way to live our lives. Thank you for teaching us how to love you and how to love each other. Help me to say ‘I’m sorry’ when we make a mistake and break a commandment. I love you and I am so glad that you are alongside me each day and night. Amen.” 

Christmas Pageant!

Save the Date for this Annual Event! 

Christmas Pageant

December 17 

Children 4 years old through Fifth grade will sing, 
act out the Advent Gospel, and enjoy a celebration reception.

Rehearsals will take place on:

Sundays, Dec. 4 and Dec. 11 at 2:00 pm

Friday, Dec. 1 at 6:00 pm (Dress Rehearsal)


((Please sign up in the trinityKids Gathering Room.))

Noah & the Ark (October 23rd)

Season of the Church Year: Common Time/ “Great Green Growing” Season  (green)

Story in Scripture: Genesis 6:9- 9:29

Many children know the story of Noah and the Ark from their early childhood. Nursery rooms, day care centers, infant pajamas- all remind us of this incredible story and the way in which God drew close to Noah and challenged the moral norms of the day. The lesson today focused primarily in the way in which Noah was in communion with God. Noah and his family loved the Lord and listened to his direction in their lives. Even though he was undoubtably surprised by the direction that God sent him! Secondly, the discussion today also focused on the way in which Noah and his family were brought to a realization of hope and new life as the flood waters began to recede. Although it is easy to attend only to the variety of animals on board.... this story is more accurately a story of separation, inspiration, distruction, patience, redemption, and, at last, new life. The children will also be enjoying a beautifully illustrated book called Noah’s Ark, by Peter Spier, which aids in an engaged discussion of the reality of the story.

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder how it felt to be in the Ark with all the rain? 

I wonder what it was like to be surrounded by so much water?

I wonder how it felt to be washed clean and new and to start over again?

I wonder how God felt about the animals and the people in the Ark?

I wonder how it felt as they made a special place to talk to God, to say their thanks to God?

I wonder how they felt when they saw the rainbow and understood the promise?

Prayer:

“Father, thank you for the story of Noah. Help me to understand the ways that you direct my life. I want to do the things that please you and I know that you want the best for me. Come near to me the way you came near to Noah. Thank you for my family, my friends, my pets, and all the ways that I enjoy your blessings every day. Amen.”

The Holy Family (October 16th)

**It may seem strange to jump from Creation to the Holy Family, but with Advent right around the corner, this lesson provided a way for the children to begin connecting the very beginning of life with the redemption of life to come. This lesson helps children to understand the bond between two of God's amazing creative acts in Genesis and in the Christmas story.** 

Season of the Church Year: Common Time/ “Great Green Growing” Season  (green)

Story in Scripture: Gospel texts

As Advent and the celebration of Christmas draw closer, we will begin to focus our attention on what life was like when Jesus was born. By learning more about Mary and Joseph and their family, we can begin to understand the way in which God chose to send his son into a simple normal family, one perhaps not far different from our own. Mary and Joseph were in a nique situation, of course, but the children today disussed them as individuals like themselves. They will wonder together about the ways that God in in situations that often seem unfortunate or difficult. Sometimes, God comes to us in surprising and unique ways that are often totally unexpected. Another topic of discussion today was the way in which creatures such as cows, donkeys, and sheep were present on the day that Jesus was born. What a humbling thought! Animals bowed down to our savior as well. Wise Men, who knew so much about the stars and science; shepherds, who were surely as stunned as their flock to see this miraculous sight.... the story is full of mystery and will hopefully lead to some fruitful discussion as Advent begins. 

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder what part of the Holy Family you like best? 

I wonder which of the members of the Holy Family is most like you?

I wonder if other people understood how special the Holy Family was?

I wonder what part of the Holy Family is the most important part? 

I wonder if there is any of the Holy Family we can leave out and still have all that we need? 

Prayer:

“Dear God, as the weather begins to cool and Christmas is around the corner, help me to begin thinking about why it is such a special, important season. Help me to remember that you came to be with us when you sent your son in such a surprising way. I love you Lord- thank you for loving us. Amen.”

Looking forward: Now that we have laid the groundwork for Advent and the culmination in many ways of God’s desire to have relationship with us, we will look back at the other ways in which God came near to us in unique and surprising ways. I encourage you to read over the story of Noah and the Ark with Genesis 6:9- 9:29. 

Circle of the Church Year (October 2nd)

Season of the Church Year: Common Time/ “Great Green Growing” Season  (green)

Story in Scripture: Genesis 1:1- 2:3  

Each Sunday, the Godly Play teachers review the season that we are in. They reflect with the children about the season, what God may be trying to teach us during this time, and they encourage the children to look forward to the seasons to come. Through a directed lesson, the children will learn today about the importance of acknowledging and considering these seasons as we worship, learn, and pray each week. The concept of God’s timing and His provision of seasons for preparation and growth will be discussed. They will talk about the “Great Growing Season,” Advent, Christmas, Resurrection and the Easter Season, and the day of Pentecost. Your child will probably bring home a beaded cord with a colored bead to represent each of the 52 Sundays in the year. I recommend that you put this cord in a place where daily Bible reading takes place so that you can consider the seasons throughout the year. Remember, the natural seasons of the year help us to look back with gratitude and look forward with anticipation... God has provided us with seasons in our faith to do the same.

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder which of these colors/ seasons you like best?

I wonder which of the colors/ seasons is the most important?

I wonder if you’ve ever seen these colors in church, at home, or at school?

I wonder why the Church tells time with colors?

Prayer:

“Dear Father, thank you for the seasons. Thank you for the changing weather, the growing trees, and the cooling winds. Thank you for the sun and the moon, which help us mark our days. Thank you also for the seasons of the Church Year, so that we can remember to prepare our hearts for what is to come and can remember back to the beautiful things that have taken place. Amen.”

Looking forward: Next week, we will be worshipping together in music and art creation. As your family prepares your hearts of the Advent Season, remember that there are now Holy Season books and resources for check out in the Gathering Room.  

Please note: This lesson was taught to the 1st- 3rd grade class on September 25th. Preschool through 3rd grade students will actually be enjoying a Musical Worship Day on October 2nd, while the 4th- 5th grade students learn about the Circle of the Church Year. 

Creation (September 25th)

Season of the Church Year: Common Time/ “Great Green Growing” Season  (green)

Story in Scripture: Genesis 1:1- 2:3  

This week, your child learned about and discussed the Creation story. This beautiful story reminds us of the amazing power that God has to move, energize, empower, and inspire the world around us. As the chlidren contemplate each incredible part of creation.... the light.... the darkness separated from the light... water... dry land... plants and growing things... the sun, moon, and stars... the animals of the seas, lakes, and rivers... the birds that fly... and finally the animals that move about on the earth.... everything is filled with the beauty and magnificence of God! During the lesson, your child’s teacher will also encourage them to consider the importance of what God did last: he rested! There are so many important facets of this lesson to open up conversation about the ways in which God leads us. We are an incredible creation of God. He made us. He loves and cherishes us. All of the natural world- trees, flowers, horses, beetles, ponds, even mosquitos (!) are part of God’s amazing story. And he models for us how to enjoy these things through a special thing called sabbath- even God rested to enjoy what he had made.

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder which part of the Creation story you think is most interesting?

I wonder what special place you would go to remember God’s gifts of Creation?

Today you will have the chance to make your own cards that remind you of the Creation story.

Prayer:

“Wonderful God, thank you for your creation! Thank you for making the light… the moon… the water and dry land… the animals and plants… and even me and my family. You are so powerful and I am glad that you made me. Help me to enjoy your creation and treat it with love. Amen.”

Looking forward: Next week, we will be learning about the Holy Family as we begin to prepare our hearts of the Advent Season. As your family prepares for this important season, remember that there are now Holy Season books and resources for check out in the Gathering Room. 

trinityKids Pumpkin Picking!

YAY for Fall!!! Join trinityKids as we pick out the perfect pumpkin to celebrate Autumn's arrival! Meet us at Northside UMC between 10 and noon on October 22nd.  All ages are welcome, but children should be accompanied by a parent, nanny, or babysitter.  See you there!!

The Good Shepherd & the Lost Sheep (September 11th)

Season of the Church Year: Common Time/ “Great Green Growing” Season  (green)

Story in Scripture: Psalm 23 

This parable, written by David, outlines for us beautiful imagery of the way that God truly loves us. With the children, the story is told in a hands-on, visual way, with the Good Shepherd leading the way to clear clean waters and also through dark places (represented by large black felt shapes). It is very powerful to talk with children about the Good Shepherd’s dedication to every last sheep. During our story telling today, the teacher illuded to a counting of each sheep. When one is found to be missing, the teacher moves the Good Shepherd back through it all, including the dark places, to find the missing or lost sheep. One of the most insightful responses I’ve ever heard from a child was this: After the story was complete and a connection was made between Jesus and the Good Shepherd, a student once exclaimed, “What? That good shepherd was actually Jesus the whole time!!?!?!? Wow!” This story is a fantastic way to bring the glory of God’s care for us into focus for the little ones. With the older children, this story provides an excellent beginning to a conversation about spiritual disciplines (connecting to the structure and boundary of the sheep fold), as well as the guidance of Jesus in their lives- even through places that are dark and confusing- Jesus goes first to lead us through to the other side!

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder how many sheep really could live in this place?

I wonder if you have ever had to go through places of danger?

I wonder how the sheep feel when they are with the Good Shepherd?

I wonder how the Good Shepherd feels about the sheep?

Prayer:

“Dear Jesus, thank you so much for being our Good Shepherd. You care for us, you guide us, and you protect us. Help me to follow you and stay near your side, no matter if I am in times that are easy or hard. I am so grateful that you are in my life. Amen.”

Looking forward: Next week, we will enjoy a time for musical worship and reflection. After that, we will be entering into a season of learning about Jesus’ early ministry, beginning with the calling of the twelve disciples (Mark 3: 7-19). 

Please note: This lesson will be taught to the 4th- 5th grade students on September 18th and to the 1st- 3rd grade students later in the year. 

Jesus Feeds 5,000 People (September 4th)

Season of the Church Year: Common Time/ “Great Green Growing” Season  (green)

Story in Scripture: Mark 6: 30-44

As we enter deeper into the Great Green Growing Season, we will be delving into scripture that illustrates the ministry of Jesus. We focused this week on the story of the Feeding of the 5,000. This miracle was not only a testament to the power of Jesus, but also an illustration of the disciples’ trust in their Savior. Children often marvel at this story because it is so hands-on. To imagine 5 loaves and 2 fishes… amazingly able to feed a nearly innumerable crowd of men, women, and children. I recommend talking with your child about God’s unexpected provisions. Perhaps there is a story from your own life that will lend itself to this conversation. This story truly provides a tangible example of how amazing God is and how much he wants to care for the needs of his people.

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

I wonder how the disciples are feeling about what just happened?

I wonder how the crowd feels?

I wonder why the crowd thinks Jesus is the Christ?

I wonder why the people want to make Jesus their king?

I wonder what kind of king Jesus would be?

I wonder why Jesus slipped away?

Prayer:

“Dear Lord, help me to be ready to see you do amazing things in my life. Even when I think I don’t have enough to give, please show me all the wonderful things that YOU can do. I trust you and I know that your story is the best story for my life. Thank you for feeding me, just like you fed those 5,000 people. Amen.”

Looking forward: Next week, we will be learning about the Parable of the Farmer and the Growing Seed. Prepare with your child by reading the scripture and reflecting back on the importance of parables. Mark 3: 7-19

Please note: This lesson was taught to the 4th- 5th grade students on August 21st and will be taught to the Prek- kindergarten class later in the year. 

Being with God/ Orientation to the Worship Space (August 21st)

Season of the Church Year: Common Time/ “Great Green Growing” Season  (green)

Story in Scripture: Psalm 5: 7

This Sunday’s lesson centered around the experience of being in a Sanctuary. Children discussed the importance of entering reverently and peacefully into the classroom (sometimes called the Worship Space). Their teacher helped them to visualize and give words to the various expectations we have for their behavior in the classroom. The primary directives that they will return to throughout this conversation are that, in the Sanctuary, we (1) Walk peacefully, (2) Talk softly, (3) Move slowly (there’s no reason to hurry!), and (4) Give our friends time and space to be with God. Their teacher will also discuss with them the use of reminders, should they need them. The overall purpose of this lesson is to prepare the children to engage in worship corporately and independently on Sundays. Teachers will revisit these concepts frequently throughout the year.

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

Now I wonder how we can show God that we are ready to worship?

I wonder how God knows that we are listening to him?

Many people choose to worship God through story-telling, singing, making art work, and reading. What are your favorite ways to worship God? Why? 

Prayer:

“Father, help me to enter into a time of worship with you peacefully. I want to spend time with you, but it’s hard to slow down when things are so busy. Please meet me every day to share our love together and to teach me about your story. Amen.”

Looking forward: Next week, we will be enjoying a musical worship day in which children will sing songs and celebrate the return to the “regular” schedule. 

Parent Day- October 23rd!

Save the Date!

We will be enjoying a Parent’s Day with trinityKids! Join us to experience a Godly Play lesson and to learn more about what your children experience on Sunday mornings. We will also be discussing the theories behind Godly Play, how we have adapted these theories to meet our needs at Trinity, our classroom management style, and the ways that we ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all children. We will also discuss and brainstorm other ways that your children can get involved in the trinityKids community. 
You can find more on the Facebook group, or just ask Julia about it.

Limited childcare will be provided, be sure to sign up right away!

Please feel free to invite other parents of trinityKids

     children! All are welcome, but do be sure to RSVP. Thanks!

Orientation to the Classroom Sanctuary

Beginning on August 14^th, Godly Play students will participate in several lessons that orient them to their time in the classroom sanctuary. These lessons may seem tedious to older children or to those who have been in the Godly Play environment for several years, but they are a vital re-centering of everyone’s expectations for the classroom sanctuary. These lessons focus on four ways to prepare ourselves to be with God (I’ve also included in italics the ways in which we explain these expectations):

*In the classroom sanctuary, we talk softly. This is a place to spend time talking and listening to God. We don’t want to interrupt someone else’s worship, so we use quiet words and peaceful language.

*In the classroom sanctuary, we walk peacefully. There is no reason to rush in this place. We can walk slowly and take our time. Outside, we can run and jump; here, we focus on other things.

*In the classroom sanctuary, we worship thoughtfully. This is a special time to spend thinking about God. We can remember the stories from the Bible, make artwork that helps us to better understand, and we can sing and listen to music to worship. We only have a short time in the classroom sanctuary, so we think carefully about how to spend it. 

*In the classroom sanctuary, we feast together and pray. Jesus shared special meals with his friends and the grownups share a special meal together too in the “big church.” God has blessed us with so many beautiful fruits to enjoy; we get to share them together and pray as a family of believers.

In continuation of this lesson, teachers will refer back to these simple expectations again and again. Each Sunday, during “Circle Time” (the first few moments of their time together each week), the teacher reminds them that they are in a special place…. a place unlike their living room, school classroom, playground, backyard…. it is a special place meant for spending time with God… the classroom sanctuary.

I encourage you to discuss these topics with your child at home, especially on Sundays before they arrive at church. Developing a deeper and more consistent understanding of the sacredness of the sanctuary will enable them to build a healthy perspective on worship as they grow. 

trinityKids Community Night

Please join us for a…

trinitykids Community Night! 

Friday, August 5th 

6:30- 8:30 pm

Come watch classic Looney Tunes cartoons with us! 

We will be enjoying Saturday morning-style cartoons in our pajamas and will even have a cereal buffet after dinner! 

Wear your favorite pj's & bring a pillow to relax on! :) 

(Pizza will be sold for $1 a slice.)

Friends are welcome!

Please sign up in the Gathering Room or through the Facebook invitation so we can be sure to have enough for all to enjoy. Thanks! 

(Kindergarten- 5th grade students only)