Children, Youth & Family Ministries at Pinnacle

October 2023

Children, Youth & Family Ministries

This month we celebrate World Communion Sunday. A special Sunday in which we focus on the great news that we are united with every Christian around the world through this meal. I like to think of the communion table, the Lord’s table, as the great equalizer. This is a meal Jesus provides for us. A meal we didn’t work to deserve. A meal we did not pay for. A meal that was provided for us simply because Jesus loves us. And everyone is welcome there. No matter how long you’ve proclaimed Jesus as Savior. No matter how many degrees you have or how much money is in your account. Everyone is welcome at this table. Even our enemies. It truly is a meal we all need. A meal that reminds us of God's love for every person. A meal that reminds us to give thanks for Jesus’ sacrifice. A meal that reminds us to look at each person the way God sees them– as a child of God; in need of love, forgiveness, bread and living water. Hopefully this meal humbles us and helps each of us to welcome each other that much more around our own tables.

In Christ,

Pastor Leah, writing on behalf of Liz and Brandon too

Your Children, Youth and Family Ministries Team

Live It Out

Pre-K - 5th: Sharing Communion with Children by Baking

Communion is an important part of worshiping God and remembering Jesus’ sacrifice for us. A great way to bring this to life for kids is to bake a simple (minimal ingredient) unleavened bread together! If your kids are writers, they could also prepare special plates by decorating the rims of paper plates with special sayings such as, “The Bread of Life” or “Do this in remembrance of me.” Familiarize your family with the Biblical text for communion found in Luke 22:14-23, and then get to baking! While you bake, talk about the importance of what Jesus did for us, how we are all welcome at the table, and recap the Last Supper with your kids. Add a hint of extra play for your littles, use the bread dough to make a Last Supper Table before baking. When the bread is ready, take a moment with your children to thank Jesus for giving his body for us.

6th - 12th Grade: Enthusiastic or Bored with the Ritual?

Cheryl Carson, who works for the Central Florida Presbytery, asked a group of teens “How enthusiastic are you about coming to the Lord’s Table for communion?" How would you answer the question? Share a memory of a communion experience that stood out to you. Why did it stand out? I pray that as you come to the table, God may be revealed to you in new and exciting ways.

Talk to God

Prayer:

Model what it looks like to pray, aka talking to God! Close in a time of prayer thanking God for what your children have shared. To the extent they are able, invite them to pray their own prayers of gratitude as well. Thank God specifically for your child by name.

Connect:

If you have specific prayer requests or want to talk, we’d love to connect with you. If you tried this at home we’d love to hear how it went and/or see pictures of what you’re thankful for! Email Pastor Leah here!

Important Dates

October 7 | 9 am

Blessing of the Animals

October 15 | 10 am

Children's Sabbath Worship Performance

October 21 | 3 - 6 pm

Fall Round-Up

October 28

Trunk-or-Treat | 6:15 pm

Phantom of the Organ Concert | 7 pm