As we get closer to Thanksgiving, it is so appropriate and meaningful to continue our journey towards hospitality on so many levels. I had the pleasure of assisting Perry in the Children’s Worship for all ages in Fellowship Hall. The service revolved around Veteran Day Activities, most especially focusing on the concept of service. Perry asked all the students to draw a picture of some kind act or gesture of service they had offered someone else. Each then got up, introduced themselves, and described their “service.” Perry and the students talked about how we welcome and care for people coming to our congregation. Groups took turns going out to speak with Jane Dixon and learn about the work of our Welcome Committee. The students then suggested things we can do to at CUUC to create an even more welcoming environment. Perry created small cards for the group to color and write messages to those RE students who haven’t been seen for awhile. There followed a truly insightful discussion with the students about the things they thought made them happy and comfortable at CUUC, and the things that did not lend to their desire to be here on Sundays. More than one student agreed that getting up on Sunday morning was hard. One even suggested we have services and classes on a Tuesday at around 3 PM! Totally serious, yet so funny. Perry’s facilitation of this service and activities really bore witness to the genuine honesty of feelings and opinions of the children and youth. They clearly expressed a sense of camaraderie and desire to help others in the congregation, as well as visitors. What better way to convey a community-minded sentiment than with a card saying “We miss you, please come back"!
Michele Rinaldi
Religious Education Coordinator
A look at what’s coming up…
Sunday, Nov 18th – All ages in the sanctuary for our Multigenerational Thanksgiving
Sunday, Nov 25 – Fun Sunday/Deck The Halls Crafts
(there are no RE classes)
Gently Used Children's Books and Toys Drive for the Ecumenical Food Pantry, Nov 18 to Sun Dec 9
Beginning this Sunday, you may bring in gently used kids' books and toys for our collection to benefit clients of the Ecumenical Food Pantry. Help bring joy to parents who could not otherwise afford holiday gifts for their children. We are also collecting stuffed animals (must be new or like new) for the senior clients who enjoy one for themselves! Contact: Mary Cavallero (marycava4@gmail.com) for information or to volunteer.
Stay tuned for information on our other holiday Opportunities for Giving, including the mitten tree and gift cards for children of the Coachman Family Center.
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