THIS WEEK I LEARNED

We want each child to know they are loved, valued and safe in our ministry. One of the ways we do this is by following our group promises. Please take time to review it with your child before class so that they understand the expectations. We will:  

• Listen when others are speaking and wait our turn to share  
• Keep our hands, feet, and objects to ourselves  
• Use calm, walking feet to move around the room  
• Use kind and encouraging words  
• Follow directions and make safe choices  

Today in Nursery and in Godly Play, we heard the Parable of the Good Samaritan.  This week in Godly Play, the children heard the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37), the story of a man who was hurt on a dangerous road and left alone while others passed by. Finally, a Samaritan—someone others would not have expected to help—stopped, cared for him, and made sure he was safe. Through wondering together, the children reflected on what it means to be a neighbor, how it feels to need help, and how we can show compassion and mercy to others, even when it is difficult or unexpected.

The Chapel Singers are learning a song to be sung on Palm Sunday. Our plan to sing on Feb 8th was postponed due to the inclement weather impacting our ability to rehearse in January.

In Chapel, we have are focusing on learning all about Lent and starting Kindness. Today we worked on a hands-on Mission Project. We assembled kits of chocolates and valentines for a local nursery home with a local organization, Senior Helpers.  Our goal was to make 150 little Valentine care packages.

In our sensory-friendly service, we the story from Acts 17:16–34, when Paul visits the city of Athens and notices that people worship many different gods. After seeing an altar labeled “To an Unknown God,” Paul uses it as a way to tell them about the one true God—the Creator who made the world and loves all people. Paul explains that God is not far away, but very near to us, and invites everyone to seek and know Him. Some people were curious and wanted to learn more, reminding us that God meets us wherever we are and welcomes our questions and wondering.

Please take time to read through the bulletin for all upcoming Lenten activities. Be sure to stop by the Lenten Spirituality Center, which opens on Ash Wednesday and will be available through March 25. Families are invited to explore the space at their own pace with a self-guided experience.