Beloved Families,
Summer is almost here! We are praying for our students, teachers, and parents as they finish up school years and prepare for some time of rest and refreshment. This Sunday we will be honoring our graduates of high school level and above during worship. It is a gift to mark these milestones of members in our community. We hope you can join us as we speak words of blessing and power over them while they reflect on their growth and look ahead to what is next. As we head into June, next week we will share more about the plan for our rising kindergartners and youth and their transition over the summer. It continues to be a blessing to mark time and growth of our young people, and we are excited to deepen our practices around honoring these transitions as they enter new stages of growth and development.
Kids & Youth Singing in Service
Our elementary kids and youth will be joining our adult choir in singing during service next Sunday, June 8. We are asking kids and youth to arrive at 9:30 AM that morning for a final rehearsal with the choir. We’ll have pastries for parents in the courtyard during that early hour. Our choirs will be singing a song called "The Blessing," which is a musical version of the benediction we share at the end of worship each week. You can use these lyrics and this video to help your kids practice at home.
Kids Camp
We are excited for camp this summer, and registration is still open! Camp will run June 16-20 from 9am-12pm each day. We are looking forward to this special intergenerational experience where we get to encounter God's love with people from our church family. Youth families, please note that the youth are invited to help again this year, and this can count for community service hours if they have any requirements through school or other organizations. Adults, let Pastor Andrew know if you want to be part of camp in any way this year. It is always an intergenerational time of learning and fun!
Walk & Play L.A.
Walk & Play L.A. is an annual fundraiser and community event to support Children's Hospital Los Angeles. It’s a day full of family friendly activities, highlighted by a 3K walk to the Santa Monica Pier. Our own Jon Rinkus is a chaplain at CHLA, and he is participating in the event with the Spirit Sprinters team. Spirit Sprinters support CHLA's Spiritual Care Department, which provides emotional and spiritual support to patients, families and staff. You can support his team and participate by signing up here. It takes place at the Santa Monica Pier on June 7. Go, Jon!
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 8:50 AM for those who are attending Sunday School before service. This week our nursery kids will explore how to help a friend who is hurting.
ELEMENTARY
Last Sunday we focused on the older brother in the Parable of the Prodigal Son. We explored how when we focus on what others have, we can forget what we have.
This coming Sunday is Family Sunday, and Pastor Andrew will be preaching during service. We’d love to see all your awesome faces there! Don't forget to pick up a follow-along sheet and some snacks on your way into the sanctuary.
Discussion Question for the Table at Home
What does it feel like to be left out?
When has comparing yourself to someone made you forget your own gifts or blessings?
YOUTH
This Sunday our youth are invited to join us for our regular youth gathering after worship. Parents make sure to check your email for information about summer youth retreat dates. We are excited to plan some casual hangouts for youth over the summer, so stay tuned for more information!
Have a beautiful weekend! We remain…
Less without you,
Pastors Andrew and Lindsay