Starting on November 1, we take turns writing one thing we are each thankful for in a black Sharpie marker on our pumpkin. This designated pumpkin sits in the center of our dinner table throughout the month of November. It always brings joy and quite a bit of laughter to hear what our boys are thinking about or to see what they quietly and sneakily write on the pumpkin.
Talking about Immigration in an Age of Fear
I am shaken by the anger and hatred people are expressing today at white supremacist rallies, on social media, and in YouTube clips.
This anti-immigrant sentiment is contrary to Christian values; it is inspired by ignorance, hatred, and fear. But it is also true that immigration is a very complex issue. Many people prefer to shout cheap slogans (“Build the wall!”) rather than exploring the many shades of gray that immigration issues entail. We have a lot of work to do, as individuals, families, and communities, to create a climate of truth-telling and civil discussion around immigration.
Here are a few suggestions of things you can do.
Be the blessing you want to see in the church.
How can we help young people feel included in our churches? Miriam suggests ways to include teens in your stewardship campaign by offering them the opportunity to be a blessing to, in, and for your congregation.
Celebrating the Lesser Feast of Saint Martin with a Lantern Walk
The church celebrates St. Martin of Tours today, November 11th. Martin is best known for cutting his cloak in half with his sword to share with a beggar. Afterward, he had a vision of Christ, wrapped in the half cloak. It’s a pretty simple story, which is one of the reasons it works so well for young children. My children attend a Waldorf school, and celebrating St. Martin has been a beloved tradition for us since the oldest was in preschool.
Advent in a Box
Advent in a Box is a resource created by the Christian educators at Family Ministry Tools to help churches equip families to have faith conversations at home. The goal is to send home interactive, fun, and biblically sound activities that engage families and help them grow in their faith. Advent in a Box is a pizza box filled with all-age devotions and activities to help families celebrate Advent and prepare for Christmas.
Do you pray for your children?
Editor’s Note: This post originally appeared on Building Faith, a ministry of Virginia Theological Seminary My First Prayer for My Children When I was pregnant […]