Kidz Ministry: Why We Serve

by Gordon & Ruth Ann Slippy

Forrest Gump’s mother famously said, “Life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you’re gonna get.”

And so it is with our 4th and 5th graders at 9:15 on Sunday mornings. We have the privilege of spending an hour each week with young people who are experiencing life just as we are – complete with joys, sadness, conviction, doubts, answers, and questions.

Our schedule takes us on a journey through various themes in the Bible which all point to Jesus, and His reliability and trustworthiness no matter what. We always read the supporting passage, which is reinforced through video and song, and do some fun activities to help us remember the lesson for the week.

But sometimes, life interferes. As a group, Sunday morning also becomes a safe place to share what’s on our hearts – the passing of a pet, a challenge at school or home, a recent injury, a job change, or concerns about news events. For instance, it’s easy to discuss the theme of “friendship” academically, but it’s harder to put it into practice.

§ How could Jesus remain friends with Peter after Peter’s denial?
§ How can I be friends with someone who’s different?
§ What if I feel like I’m the one who’s different?
§ How can we be like Barnabas, who vouched for Paul with the skeptical disciples immediately after Paul’s conversion?

Thank you for allowing us to take this journey with your kids each week.