Talking to God (Aug. 18th)

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

Story in Scripture: Psalm 5: 7

This week, we revisited the concepts from our lesson about the Classroom Sanctuary. These behaviors are so important and they require quite a bit of repetition for the little ones, especially those who have just transitioned from the Toddler classroom. We moved in to a discussion of Prayer and the ways that we interact with and talk to God. As a group, children will enjoy the picture book In God’s Name by Sandy Eisenberg Sasso. This book explores the various ways that we draw near to God- through his strength, through his peace, through his provision. The children discussed the various ways they have seen God in their own lives. The children also practiced a few simple prayers together and shared prayer requests after a short conversation about them. Finally, a good deal of time was devoted at the end of today’s lesson for children to write, draw, paint, or sculpt a prayer to God.

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

Now I wonder what you think of when you think of God?

I wonder what you see in your thoughts when you say his name?

I wonder what sorts of things you might want to talk to God about?

I wonder if there is anything that you think you should tell God about right now?

Prayer:

“Dear God, thank you for listening to me when I share my thoughts and prayers with you. I know that you care for me and I am so glad that we can talk every single day- in the morning, in the daytime, and even late late at night. Amen.”

Orientation to the Sanctuary & Worship Space (Aug. 11th)

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.” 

CPR + First Aid Training!

Volunteers & Trinity Families~ 

I am offering a *FREE* First Aid & CPR training 

on Saturday, August 31st. 

(9:00 am-12:00 pm for CPR only, 9:00 am- 3:00 pm for CPR + First Aid)

Space is limited, so let me know if you're interested!

julia@trinityanglicanmission.org

Children & Media

    

     Children and young people today are exposed to so many forms of communication that we didn’t experience until adulthood. As a result, children are reading, hearing, and looking at things that they are simply not prepared for, or are spending more time interacting with electronics than is healthy. Families tackle this problem in many different ways and with many different reasons for their decisions.

     I recently read an article (http://iheartmontessori.wordpress.com/2012/10/25/tv-electronic-media-unplugging-the-kids/) about the importance of helping children to “unplug” from electronic stimulation, whether it is the television, iPads, video games, or computers. This is a topic that many families have considered and approached in various ways. Please take a moment to grab a copy of an article, published on the iheartmontessori.wordpress.com blog, available in the Gathering Room.  The article includes many helpful insights and suggestions for guiding your children into a healthy relationship with electronic educational tools and entertainment.

     You will also find several copies of the book Social Sklz:-) in the Trinity Kids Lending Library. This book, written by Faye de Muyshondt, outlines the importance of being respectful, grateful, and kind in all contexts. While these are labeled 'soft skills' in the professional world, they are key to succeeding in life. Muyshondt also addresses the importance of showing integrity when online.  I hope it is also a helpful resource to you and your families.

The Exodus (July 28th)

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

Story in Scripture: Exodus 1:1- 15:21

The story of Exodus is a powerful one. It reminds us that God is not only sovereign & powerful, but he is also loving & patient. It is difficult for most children in our community to even imagine what it might be like to be truly hungry. Thankfully, the concept of being held captive in slavery is also nearly impossible for them to imagine. But the story of Exodus is a beautiful illustration that God is there to lead us out of captivity- either slavery of sin or slavery of physical chains. God led his people through terrifying and uncertain times; he provided them with the security and the care that they needed along the way. He provides the same for us, even if it may look differently. As we shared this story with the children today, we provided an overview of many of the events that took place during the time period described in the book of Exodus. Be encouraged to continue reading and learning alongside your child about these stories. We have many resources here at the church that you are welcome to borrow. Most importantly, talk with your child about the power of God to free us through the sacrifice of his son Jesus Christ.

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

Now I wonder how it feels to be hungry and not have any food? I wonder how the parents felt when they didn’t have any food to feed their children? I wonder how it feels if the only way to get food is to be a slave?    

I wonder if you have ever been near a place like this, trapped, and someone freed you?

I wonder how it felt when the firstborn of the Egyptians died and but death passed over the people of God?

I wonder how it felt when God led them through the water to freedom?

Now that the people of God are free, I wonder which way they will go?

I wonder how they will know the way?

Prayer:

“Dear God, thank you for the ways that you have stood by your people for so long. I am so glad these stories are here to remind me that you are powerful, loving, and in control. Thank you for caring for us and providing 

The Story of Moses (July 28th)

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

Story in Scripture: Exodus 1: 8- 17:7, John 1: 1-17

Many children have some idea about who Moses was, but may not understand the details of his life. This week, we learned about God’s call for him and the adventurous events that took place when he entered into God’s story. To summarize, we discussed: (1) how Baby Moses was found and cared for by the daughter of an Egyptian Pharaoh, (2) his killing of an Egyptian soldier in defense of a Jewish slave (and how he ran away), (3) his reluctant acceptance of his role as a speaker for God’s people, (4) Pharaoh’s eventual release of the Jewish slaves, (5) the Exodus into the desert, (5) the revelation of the 10 Commandments and the admonishment because of the golden calf, (6) Moses’ death before reaching the Promise Land. It is a very lengthy story!

Guiding Questions for Discussion:

(Note: These are the usual questions that are asked after Old Testament character studies.)

Now I wonder which part of the story you liked best?

I wonder what part is the most important?

I wonder what part is about you…. Or what part was especially for you?

I wonder what the story of Abraham and his family might be teaching you?

Prayer:

“Father, thank you for Moses. We can learn so much from his adventurous life. I pray that you would help me to listen to your plan for my life and go with me through all my adventures, even if I am scared or nervous. I know that you are always with me. Help me to be the kind of person that can bring joy to you and who can show the world how powerful and wonderful you are. Amen.”