Recently a Kidzone teacher told me a story of what happened during her Sunday school class here at St. Andrew’s. The children were given newspapers to read, to help them pray for world events.
A few months before this, an Iranian family joined our church and sent their son to our Children’s program. He eagerly tried to get involved by constantly raising his hand when a question was asked but could never answer the question until the day of the newspaper activity. He had found an article about Iran and started to pour out his heart in broken English to the teacher and his classmates about his home country, the struggles they had faced, and how this ultimately led them to find refuge in Hong Kong. So touched, one of his classmates boldly prayed to God to provide a new country for this Iranian family. Hope and faith were awakened when God answered the children’s prayers a few weeks later.
Just like adults need a spiritual community to belong to where we grow stronger together and find encouragement and support, children need a safe and loving spiritual community where they feel they belong and can grow.
During our 9:30 am and 11:30 am morning services, Children’s Ministries provides this kind of environment in two ways—Creche for parents with babies and toddlers and Kidzone for primary aged school-going children.
During Creche, parents watch the live stream of the service while their little ones play. Then, after listening to the sermon, children listen to a simple Bible story and sing scripture songs. As a result, Creche parents and their children have an opportunity to also meet with God’s people and build community.
children need a safe and loving spiritual community
During Kidzone, children enjoy being taught age-appropriate Bible lessons, with games, crafts, singing and application time to help them learn about God and His ways. In addition, it is a joy to partner with parents by providing a safe and nurturing spiritual environment where their children can be with others who are also learning Godly values.
Children are influenced when interacting with authentic Christians. They also need spiritual aunties and uncles other than their parents who reflect the image of God to them either by love, patience, compassion or kindness to help them grow spiritually. I want to invite you to consider joining this ministry prayerfully. You can be part of impacting the next generation for eternity. We will train you and provide opportunities where you can use your God-given gifts and talents to serve God.
How to get involved?
Please pray for this ministry. Second, consider joining as a teacher, assistant or welcomer. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact carol@standrews.org.hk
