Magazine for June 2011
Kaleidoscope
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A Kaleidoscope is amazing! As we gently turn the end of the tube, all the colours in this children’s toy change and mix and make beautiful designs.
That illustrates the vision behind the new programme, which takes place on Thursday afternoons at St Mark’s. |
Our church’s aim – to reach out to children and families in the community – is grounded first and foremost in a sense that God our Father would have it thus – in other words, it is our response to the WWJD question (What Would Jesus Do?).
The Bible is full of references to the love and tenderness God feels, towards little ones, nursing mothers, parents in general and of course the widow and the orphan (aka single parent).
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Mark 10:14). And in the book of Proverbs there is plenty of helpful advice for parents, if you’d like to take a look.
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A wonderful opportunity has arisen to work closely with the NCT (National Childbirth Trust) who have hosted a group in the Centenary Lounge for many years, and together we have come up with a way to welcome children from pre-birth until they start school, with a range of simultaneous activities. |
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For some parents, a structured discussion is helpful, so they can come to Bumps and Babies, with a trained NCT facilitator, or 21st Century Parent, hosted by members of St Mark’s. If time to play and a chat with friends is the order of the day, then Stay ‘n Play is a better option.
As children grow and needs change, there’s plenty of flexibility, and there’s always a friendly welcome, a chance to talk to someone and most importantly, a cup of tea!
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And the Kaleidoscope? We are expecting to see many beautiful patterns, changed lives, growing families and the benefits of sharing God’s love generously. Please come and talk to me if you’d like to know more. |
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Phillipa