Last week we kicked off a new season of children’s and youth ministry. We are blessed to have Jacklien Lee lead our Sunday School ministry and Hunter Purvis leading our youth ministry. Under their leadership, creative programs are implemented, lay-leaders are recruited and our children and youth are taught Christian values and principles to help them navigate life. Additionally, they also are available to support, encourage and pray for parents. We are grateful for their passion, their heart and their dedication, to both God and the people they are serving faithfully each week.
Children are a gift from God. (Ps. 127:3) It is an honour and privilege to encourage them, pray for them and build them up in the Lord. In do ing so, we are making an investment that will last. I am reminded of this poem taken from the book, Children Learn What They Live by Nolte and Harris;
If a child lives with criticism, they learn to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility, they learn to fight.
If a child lives with ridicule, they learn to feel shy.
If a child lives with shame, they learn to feel guilty.
If a child lives with encouragement, they learn confidence.
If a child lives with tolerance, they learn to be patient.
If a child lives with praise, they learn appreciation.
If a child lives with acceptance, they learn to love.
If a child lives with approval, they learn to love themselves.
If a child lives with honesty, they learn truthfulness.
If a child lives with security, they learn to have faith in those around them.
If a child lives with friendliness, they learn the world is a nice place in which to live.
The Bible reminds us of the importance and value of investing i n our chil dren and youth. Proverbs says, "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6.
Blessings,
Pastor Michele