Jesus probably wasn’t born in a barn, far away from his family. So why is that part of our Christmas story? Find out more in this children’s teaching.
Where is Bethlehem? (7:28)
What makes Bethlehem such a special city? Learn a little bit more about the place where Jesus was said to be born in this children’s teaching.
Children’s time: “A Little Peace” by Barbara Kerley
Today is Peace Sunday in the Mennonite Church. I hope you enjoy this book of photos of people promoting peace!
Which of the ways that people share a little peace can you do today? What other actions can you do that aren’t included in this book?
Children’s time: “How I Learned Geography” by Uri Shulevitz
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!
Sharing Box: 31 things we’re sharing in March
One of my favorite parts of my neighborhood is our Sharing Box, a small outdoor pantry where neighbors can put things to share and take what they need or want. It’s the perfect distance from our house for a walk with our dogs, and we go at least once a day.
In March, we’re working hard to add more items that women need or we think women might especially enjoy. Here are some things we’re sharing:
- menstrual care products
- favorite recipes on notecards
- small zippered bags for makeup
- lip gloss
- hand sanitizer
- masks
- nail polish
- recent magazines
- cooking utensils
- a baking dish
- hair ties
- bars of soap
- decorative candles
- craft supplies
- wrapping paper
- book of puzzles
- oil
- salt
- pepper and other spices
- Cuties
- grapefruit
- boxes of tea
- children’s books
- Vienna sausages
- granola bars
- individually-packaged cookies
- cheese-and-cracker packs
- juice boxes
- Pop-tarts
- individually wrapped bags of microwavable popcorn
- individual soda cans (provided it’s not freezing)
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.
Family Foxhole 