Today is World Refugee Sunday. As we seek to support refugees, this story about the author’s own experience as a refugee from Poland living in Kazakhstan reminds of us how our imaginations can bring us comfort even when we are far away from our familiar lives.
Children’s Time: “How Smudge Came” by Nan Gregory and Ron Lightburn
The gentle illustrations in this children’s book soften the story a bit, which may invoke complex emotions. Cindy’s friends are inspired by how much she loves and cares for her puppy. As you listen, pay attention to your feelings. When do you feel sad? worried? angry? What actions in the story make people feel safe and loved and respected?
In When Smudge Came, we see that Cindy’s friends at hospice show her love because she showed love to Smudge, which reminds me of this week’s lectionary reading: 1 John 4:7-21. Can you think of times when you were inspired to love others because someone loved you?
Children’s Time: “A Cool Drink of Water”
As we celebrate Earth Day, we hope you enjoy seeing photos from how people enjoy a drink of water around the world!
Children’s Time: “All Together Now” by Anita Jeram
What keeps a family together when they don’t look alike? Love!
Children’s Time: “Yes? Yo!” by Chris Raschke
The last Sunday of February brings us one more children’s picture book featuring Black characters: Chris Raschke’s Yes? Yo! It’s a lively dialogue (simple enough for early readers) about a new friendship. Hope you like it!
Children’s Time: “Last Stop on Market Street” by Matt de la Pena, illustrated by Christian Robinson
During February, our church is sharing children’s books featuring Black characters. This Caldecott Honor book tells the story of CJ and his grandma as they leave church and go someplace special–but not someplace CJ wants to go at first.
Children’s Time: “How to Read a Book,” written by Kwame Alexander and illustrated by Melissa Sweet
Each Sunday during February, we’re reading a book featuring Black characters during our church’s Children’s Time. We start the month with How to Read a Book by Kwame Alexander, illustrated by Melissa Sweet. We hope you like it!
You can see the whole service here.
