We are half way through the summer and that means fall and school are just around the corner. There are a few adjustments and changes in store for AdventureKidz. But - before I talk about the changes - let me fill you in on the great things that will remain consistent.
First, we have many great group leaders who are returning in the fall. Those leaders want to come back. They deeply appreciate the summer off. Some have upped their commitment to be here each Sunday for our kids. They recognize that their consistent involvement with kids creates safety for our children. The bottom line is they have fallen in love with your kids and want to be with them. I think this is a huge victory to celebrate.
Second, we are continuing with the Rethink curriculum. This is one of the best resources that help the church and families work together, building spiritual faith in the lives of our kids. We know that when the church and the family work side by side for the good of our children that we have opportunity for greater impact for the Kingdom.
Third, it is important to recognize the leadership who have served and lead us with passion and deep commitment for our kids.
Thank you Jennifer Niemtschk. Jennifer has served for the last two years in the River and Studio 45. She has worked tirelessly for the ministry and I know we all appreciate her enthusiasm and passion for the kids. Jennifer is stepping down from leadership but will remain a volunteer in the environment, serving beside you as a storyteller, helping with check-in, and doing what she does best... loving the kids. Please take a moment to thank Jennifer for her hard work and dedication.
Thank you Tara Hagemann. Tara has served in the River working beside Jennifer. She came on board to help with administration, small groups and curriculum. Tara along with her husband Dan, serve because they love children and believe deeply in partnering together for the good of our children. Tara and Dan also serve in the Big Brother Big Sister Organization. Needless to say they are “all in." Tara is stepping down at the end of July to pursue schooling. You will continue to see her on a regular basis because she believes in being involved in ministering to children.
Rebecca Whitely brought dynamic energy to the production through story tellers and worship. Her smile and bubbly personality got kids moving, dancing, and worshiping while they learned from a talented team of storytellers, actors, and hosts.
Thank you Toye Wheatley and Heather Womack. These ladies each continue to bring leadership to our Cove and Reef respectively. They are passionate for children and for the parents. They recognize the hard work that goes into raising kids and the privilege of encouraging parents. They energetically create safe, fun, and loving environments for our littler ones in AdventureKidz. Join me in thanking them for all they do and the care they extend. Toye and Heather will continue this fall to lead and serve.
Finally, join me in thanking all who give their best to our kids. Those who sit in small groups, who tell stories, host, run check-in, clean toys, buy supplies, run copies... the list is long. It takes a small army to pull off each and every Sunday morning.
Now for the Future
In order to fill in during an unforeseeable interim, I will be leading a forming team of leaders for AdventureKidz. We will be spending July with the current team in order to learn from them. We will then assess how to move forward.
We are challenging ourselves with the task of working with you the parents in becoming a family ministry. We want to link arms with you in this precious privilege of raising children who are ready to storm the gates of hell with a water pistol. So even though we may call this an interim time, we are not going to merely maintain. We have a vision to live out through the families. We are going to raise up fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ within our children and within the families of Eastside who will go out into all the world to make disciples.
So join with me. Let’s work together, run the race and move forward building into children and families.
Warmly,
Cathy
