Beginning in September, we will be instituting new policies that require any person working with the youth of our church to complete a few simple forms and allow us to do a background check. Please do not be concerned – there was no event that precipitated this new policy. Most churches have similar policies and requirements, and the Christian Education Board felt it appropriate to institute this change.

 Acolytes

There is no longer a sign-up on the bulletin board outside of the Community Room. It seemed that was not a process that was working for anybody. If your child is of age to acolyte, he or she may be asked to do so on Sunday morning.

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Don’t you just love the feeling a new year brings? It holds such promise. THIS year, I’m going to ….

We are imperfect people, but God has given us the gift of being able to change things we do not like about ourselves. As parents, we have a great responsibility to show our children that God wants us to continually be changing and growing. One of the ways God wants us to grow is our faith lives. God desires a close relationship with you. Although my children are yet small, I have come to realize that the most important moments are not the BIG moments – first

steps, starting elementary school, graduating from school. It seems to me the most important moments are the little ones – kissing boo-boos, reading together, laughing with one another, sharing moments of your day. And so it is with God. God wants us to turn to God in the little moments as will as the big ones. So I hope that among the things you wish to change in this new year, you will see a closer relationship with God. That is a big part of your life. You will be giving your family the gift of a life partner who is ever present, ever consistent and ever loving.

Congratulations to the Sunday school for their wonderful performance of Whose Christmas Is It? Everyone worked very hard, and the support of the parents is so much appreciated. We are very proud of the High School class, which chose, directed and produced this great performance. Thank you!

I am pleased to announce our teachers for Sunday school for the spring semester:

 Pre-K/K:       Mark Swihart

1st grade:      Karen Terhaar

2nd-3rd:        Stacy Nichols

4th - 8th:       Julie Coe

Senior High: Julie Kaczor and

Steve and Shelley Coppola 

Joyfully, Deb