It’s hard to believe February is almost over, 2020 is in full swing, and Lent has already arrived! The next forty days leading up to Easter are not only a time to look forward to the resurrection, but also a time to draw nearer to Jesus as we journey to the cross with him. Now, this all may seem like a lot for your little ones to grasp, but there are many ways for you and your kids to engage with the season in age appropriate ways. Below is a list of just some of the ways for your family to participate!
Ash Wednesday services tonight at 6:45 and 7:45 p.m.
o The Children’s Service at 6:45 p.m. is intended for preschool through fifth grade kiddos, but all are welcome to join us. We will learn about Ash Wednesday with Leo the Lion puppet and receive Holy Communion as well as the opportunity to receive ashes on the forehead or hand. We hope to see you tonight!
Wednesday Night Gathering in March
o Elementary and Preschool Circles will follow a Lent curriculum based on the last seven words of Jesus.
o Elementary and Preschool Music will prepare the Spring Musical!
o There are midweek Lenten services during children’s activities – faith formation for the whole family.
Lenten Devotionals
o You can find free devotionals for the whole family in the church Narthex. An Illustrated Lent for Families is perfect for any family system with young children. Generous Giving is ideal for older youth and adults.
Now, you may be asking yourself why these things are necessary since your kids already attend worship and Sunday School. Your life is already hectic enough without having to wrangle kids to talk about Lent and giving. However, your active participation in the faith formation of your children is vital. Parents are the ultimate model for kids as they begin to form and claim their faith. We are so thankful to walk alongside you and your little ones during this season on Lent.
If there anything I can do to be of support to you or your children, please know that I am here.
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Dear Abiding Presence Families,
I hope you all are enjoying your holiday weekend and that you are finding some rest among the craziness!
As we journey into this Advent season together, my mind is continually drawn to the imagery of a pregnant Mary, carrying the light of the world and waiting expectantly to hold her tiny baby. This season, I will be celebrating the arrival of this baby by reading our Intergenerational Advent devotional, In Light and Darkness, as well as taking part in Pastor Keseley's online study of Luke. I am excited to intentionally slow down this holiday season, although I expect I'll need a lot of grace for myself to do so.
Whatever image, story or tradition brings you and your family together this season, I hope you lean into it. If you've picked up one of our Family and/or Intergenerational Advent devotionals, I hope you take time each week to sit with the words. If you had a chance to make an Advent Wreath with us, I hope your family joins together to light the candles and pray for the coming Christ. Whatever tradition or activity you choose to take part in, your children are watching you seek Jesus and growing in their own faith at the same time. Whatever your Advent season looks like this year, I hope that we at Abiding Presence can be a part of it. If you want to start a new Advent tradition or activity at home this year and are not sure how to do so, I would be happy to brainstorm with you some possibilities.
Blessed Advent and Merry Christmas!
Blessings,
Michelle
Children & Family Minister
P.S. - If you need a copy of one of our Advent Devotional Books, there are lots of copies in the narthex to pick up.
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