Beloved Friends and Families with Kids,
As we honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. this weekend and Monday, I thought you might enjoy reading this poem by Gwendolyn Brooks as a family. It's a reminder that we, too, are called to go "forth with gifts" God has given each of us as we proclaim that God's Kingdom is come, in Pasadena as it is in Heaven. We are excited to worship with you tomorrow and to enjoy learning and growing alongside our kids and youth.
As a reminder, the Rose Bowl Half Marathon will be taking place tomorrow morning with limited street access around the church from 6 am - 1 pm. Be sure to check out the road closure map so you can plan your route and give yourself extra time to get to service, especially if you live south of Green Street.
SUNDAY
KIDS
Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 8:50 AM for those who are attending Sunday School before service.
Our kids five to ten years old will join us in the sanctuary for the start of worship and then be dismissed to head to their classrooms together. They can begin service with their families or sit with Pastor Mary and me in the front pews. If they are coming early with parents who are in a Sunday School class, they can be dropped off upstairs at 8:50 AM. (If you need help finding the upstairs classrooms, just text Pastor Lindsay and we will help you find your way!) This week we will continue with our exploration of Epiphany and the ways that God leads and guides us (like God guided the Magi!). We'll also look at the way that Martin Luther King, Jr. was a guiding light for others by sharing his vision for justice and the Kingdom of Heaven. It's going to be a full and fun morning with our kids!
Discussion Questions for the Table at Home:
What are you wondering about as you think about the star that guided the Magi?
What are ways that God leads and guides you?
Think about the way that God has made you (your talents, interests, things you enjoy and are good at). How might God be inviting you to lead others as you follow God?
YOUTH
We are on for our regular youth lunch this Sunday. We will gather in the front pews and then head to the youth room for lunch and discussion. We are so thankful to be back with our youth!
Youth parents, I wanted to let you know that tomorrow during the preaching time, we will be exploring the theology behind our value and practice of inclusion. Since our youth will be present during worship, we will create space for our youth to discuss and ask questions after service during our youth gathering. We look forward to the chance to engage in thoughtful conversations with our youth around a theology of inclusion in light of their perspective and questions.
Have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for being such a special community of families.
With much love and gratitude for you,
Pastor Lindsay