From Heather Campbell, our Children’s Ministry Coordinator
Parents,
I am praying for each of you and your families. Please reach out if you or your family have any needs during this time. We are happy and willing to serve the body in any way we can.
You can click here to download the children’s bulletin that will go along with the sermon for this week.
John 21:1-17 is the familiar story of Peter going fishing after the resurrection of Jesus. He didn’t know what else to do. He simply went back to that which was familiar. He had a heavy heart as well since he still felt the sting of denying Jesus. You can share this story in short with these video clips:
or watch the entire episode on RightNow Media. Log in and search under KIDS for Super Book Peter’s Denial (Season 2 Episode 11)(26 mins)
In this week’s sermon, Pastor Darin will teach about Peter being restored. It got me to thinking about what kids might think that word means.
Ask your children their thoughts, then watch the video for some of their friends thoughts: Friend #1
Friend #2 and Friend #3
Thoughts on Communion:
This is such a special and unique time to be given the opportunity to corporately take communion as a church body in the privacy of our homes.
DON’T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY!!!!
You can teach WHY and WHAT Communion is all about.
1. Explain to them that we take Communion to honor the sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. We believe this understanding is paramount to receiving the bread and the “wine” during Communion.
2. Teach them to look inside of their own heart before partaking in communion so that they are certain to hold no unforgiveness towards anyone including themselves. We encourage them to confess their sin and ask God to give them a clean heart before partaking in the bread and wine (grape juice). This is also a great time to discuss restoration especially with older kids/teens toward each other and you.
3. Teach them that Communion is an intimate part of both worship and fellowship with Christ and His body of believers. We see communion as an opportunity to stay intimately connected with Christ and the significance of His sacrifice on the Cross.
4. Explain the symbols from Jesus himself. Read 1 Corinthians 11:24-26 (NIRV) then break down the symbols of bread and wine and body and blood. This should not scare children but it should point to the depth and seriousness of the elements.
Even if your child is not ready to publicly take communion, doing so while teaching about it in your home can be a precious time of family worship.
I pray that this email encouraged you, gave you some thoughts about family communion and conversation starter about true restoration and the only One who can do that fully!
Serving Him,
Heather