Jesus Blesses the Children

This Sunday, we are learning about how Jesus blessed the children.  In Jesus' time, children were considered to be property of their parents.  Girls were married off and boys were put to work.  So it was a big deal for Jesus to make time for them.  You can read about this story in Mark 10: 13 - 16 and in almost all children's Bibles.

In Sunday School, we'll talk about what exactly a blessing is.  At home, you might consider talking about how to be blessings to others.  As for a craft, I ran across this idea on pinterest.

Prayer Pail
Materials:
- a miniature bucket, pail, empty can, mason jar, or flower pot (the $1 dollar aisle at Target usaully has these)
- markers, stickers, or paint
- popsicle sticks

How To:
Decorate the outside of your Prayer Pail with markers, stickers, paint, or whatever strikes your fancy.

On each popsicle stick write someone or something that you want to pray for.  Ideas could include peace, grandparents, the homeless, etc.

Drop the popsicle sticks in the pail.  Every night before dinner, you can choose a stick and say a prayer for that person or thing.

One Great Hour of Sharing

Whew, it has been a while since I've updated.  Sorry, y'all.

This month kicks off our One Great Hour of Sharing offering in Church School.  This is the annual offering we take up in the fish banks that goes to the Presbyterian Church USA.  It is a great opportunity to teach children about giving!  We will begin accepting the fish banks from March 25th until Easter.  Same as last year, we will have our kiddie pool "sharing pond" on the Assembly Room stage for your children to release their fish.

In order to inspire giving, here is a little scavenger hunt style incentive list:

“I Spy” Giving Guide

 

Here’s a list to help you remember about One Great Hour of Sharing.  Using your fish bank, think about donating the suggested amount for each item listed below.  See how fast you can fill your fish!

Giving Thanks for God’s Creation

1¢- Each time you see a red bird

1¢- Each time you see a robin

5¢- See tree buds in your yard

5¢- See the first crocus

10¢- See blooming forsythia

25¢- If you find a bird’s nest

Practicing Good Stewardship

1¢- Each morning you make your bed

1¢- per item—Help sort through clothes for charity

5¢- per window—Help wash windows

10¢- Give a gently used toy to charity

25¢- Helping clear the garden

Helping Others

1¢- Each time you say a prayer for someone

5¢- Comfort a sad friend

5¢- Help carry in and put away the groceries

10¢- Make a card for someone who is feeling sick

25¢- Bake cookies for a neighbor

$5 – If there is a Snow Day