Beloved Families,
I know the next couple of weeks before school starts are going to be busy and full. This week I want to share one simple practice that might help your families slow down for a few moments in the midst of so much to do. Walking a labyrinth is an ancient and beautiful practice for reflection and journeying inward. It's nice when you can actually walk through one somewhere picturesque, but a finger labyrinth is a great alternative you can do right at home, individually or sitting together as a family. Here is a finger labyrinth you can print and then use with these instructions:
Start with a deep breath to ground yourself. Begin at the opening and trace your finger on the path towards the center of the labyrinth. As you do, tell God what you are thinking about. What worries are you carrying? What are you looking forward to? What is most on your mind? Ask or tell God whatever comes up. Take your time. When you reach the center of the labyrinth, pause and take a few deep breaths, releasing all your thoughts to God. Then, as you slowly trace your finger back to the beginning of the labyrinth, listen for God’s voice. It might be an encouragement, a word that you think of, a sensation in your body, a picture that pops into your mind, or something like that. Receive whatever God offers in the moment, even just a sense of peace or calm. End the practice with a simple prayer or a deep breath. Take time to debrief as a family if you like.
May you feel strengthened by whatever practice helps your family pause and reconnect with the God who sees and loves you fully.
Family Ministry Training
Family Ministry volunteers are invited to attend one of two trainings (August 16 OR August 23, from 10am-12pm) for Pastor Andrew’s summer training and vision casting. He will be sharing the direction of ministry for this school year and the amazing part that you are invited to play in discipling our next generation. Email Pastor Andrew if you have questions or are interested in joining this great team, and current volunteers please RSVP through the Evite you received.
Promotion Sunday
Our kindergarteners and our sixth graders will make their official move up to their new groups on Sunday, August 17. Pastor Andrew and I are excited to welcome and support them in this transition. It is a joy to witness the growth and development of our kids over time, and we are thankful for all our leaders who nurture their sense of belonging each week.
Youth Pool Hangout
Our next youth pool hangout will be Saturday, August 23, from 12-3pm at the Powell's house. Lunch will be provided, and we will have games out as well. Once again we will have a lifeguard present to keep it safe and fun. I'll send out the house address that week, but let me know if your youth needs help with transportation. Thanks to the Powells for opening their home!
SUNDAY
EARLY CHILDHOOD
Our nursery room is open this Sunday for babies and toddlers four years old and under. Childcare will be open starting at 10:20 AM. This week our nursery kids will explore the story of Joseph and his brothers and the truth that we can say sorry to our family when we mess up.
ELEMENTARY
This week Pastor Andrew and the kids will look at faithfulness as another Fruit of the Spirit. This summer series has provided a rich time to look at all the traits the Spirit can work in us, and we are praying kids feel encouraged and empowered by them.
Follow-Up Questions for the Table at Home
What does it mean that God is faithful?
When have you experienced someone's faithfulness to you?
YOUTH
We have our regular youth gathering after worship this Sunday. Michael will be joining us this week, and lunch will be served as usual. Youth can be picked up at 1:30 PM on Union Street. I'm excited to be back with our youth!
Sending much love to all of you. We remain…
Less without you,
Pastors Lindsay and Andrew