FAMILY PLUS Children's - December 28

Hey Everyone!

It’s almost 2013 and we (your kids and their Kidstuf leaders) are going to end 2012 with some fun! I’m excited to say that this Sunday we will be traveling the world in Kidstuf. We will be on multiple continents learning about all kinds of different cultures. We will even be trying some different foods from around the world. It’s going to be a huge worship celebration centered around the fact that we have a message that needs to be shared with the world!

Here are the details for Sunday:

Scripture: Acts 1:8 (I can share God’s Gift)Prayer for the Nations: The World! - We will be traveling the globe via video, food, games and more. At each location we will be stopping to ask God to help that particular country believe in Him.

Don’t Forget... Family Plus Event is this Wednesday, Jan 2nd at 6pm sharp! You do not want to miss the next piece to our ministry strategy for your kids! This one is a big deal! For more info go here or email newgenerations@thegladechurch.org

Jared NorrisChildren’s Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - December 20

Hey guys!

This Sunday is a different kind of Sunday for your family at church. You will actually get to worship in "big church" with your kids during the Birthday Party for Jesus. During the Birthday Party for Jesus you will have the opportunity to experience a couple things. 1) We will open the present we have been talking about with your kids all month long. They are eagerly anticipating and wondering what is inside that box. 2) We will all have the chance to bring forward a gift or two to give to Jesus. Here is a list of recommended gifts to bring. Remember that there is no childcare this Sunday morning for the Birthday Party for Jesus, and the service is from 10:30-11:30am.

Also, Don't forget that the Christmas Eve Eve service is Sunday evening at 6pm or 7:30pm!

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - December 15

Hey Everyone!

We are getting closer and closer to the day...the day we open the kids' present on December 23rd. If you haven't been following along with us, all you need to do to catch up is realize that someone has anonymously sent a present to the kids that will be shared with everyone. That very present was delivered on Thursday of this week, and will be available for the kids to see this Sunday. It will be on the Kidstuf stage this Sunday. Your job as a parent is to help me build anticipation because the present will be opened in front of the entire congregation at the Birthday Party for Jesus on December 23rd. The more anticipation we build, the greater the effect will be on that Sunday morning when we open it. 

Also, don't forget that we are asking families to bring a present(s) to Jesus' Birthday Party on December 23rd. There will be a time during the service that kids will be able to bring their present for Jesus down front and give it to him. We have been sending home a recommended list of presents that your children can bring. If for some reason you didn't get that list, you can view it here. 

Here are the details for this week's teaching:

Scripture: Luke 2:1-20 (The Gift Arrives)
Memory Verse:  “And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” - Matthew 1:21
Prayer for the Nations: Uganda - This week we will be doing some trivia on Uganda with the kids.

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - December 8

Hey Everyone!

Last week we introduced your kids to the idea that a present is on it's way for them in Kidstuf, but we can't open it till December 23rd in "Big Church". This week your kids are going to see that the present has shipped and is on it's way to the church. I have a photograph that was sent to me showing it being loaded on a truck and heading this way. It will arrive this coming Thursday, December 13th. Remember this is all about building anticipation for the Birthday Party for Jesus on December 23rd. The more anticipation your kids have the better their experience on Sunday morning will be. 

Also, you will need to know that a list will be handed out this week with a challenge for your kids to participate in the Birthday Party for Jesus. Take your kids to by a "present" to give to Jesus on December 23rd. Let them take the time to pick out each item. These kind of memories are lasting! I promise this will be a worthy experience to have your child participate in. On the list you will see items that will go to benefit the children and teachers of Gladeville Elementary. Go here to view the list online.

Here are your details for the week:

Scripture: Luke 1:26-56; Matthew 1:18-24 (Preparing for the Gift)
Memory Verse:  “And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” - Matthew 1:21
Prayer for the Nations: Uganda - This week we will be watching a couple more videos about missionaries in and around Uganda.

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - November 30

Family Plus Email-Children

November 30

Hey Everyone!

We have lots of changes and updates that I need to tell you this week. Make sure you read it all!

• We are getting geared up around here to celebrate Christmas with your kids! I'm so excited! Our team of leaders have come together to put some really fun things on the table during Kidstuf each Sunday in December, and it leads into the Birthday Party for Jesus on Sunday, December 23rd in "Big Church". Each week your kids will be learning about and anticipating a HUGE PRESENT that will be opened at the Birthday Party for Jesus on December 23rd. The bigger deal you make this at home, the more anticipation will be built up on that day. We are going to reveal that this present has been wrapped up and sent on it's way this week, so make sure to ask your kids about it. I want them to be "chomping at the bit" to see what's in that present on Sunday, December 23rd. 

• Also, we have a new discipline policy coming out this Sunday, December 2nd for all 1st-5th graders. If you want to get the details of this new policy, please check out our children's page on the website by clicking here.

Here are your details for the week:

Scripture: Isaiah 7:14; 9:6; 11:1-5; Micah 5:2 (The Gift is Promised!)
Memory Verse:  “And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” - Matthew 1:21
Prayer for the Nations: Uganda

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - Nov 21

Hey Everyone!

 

This week we are covering the timeless truths covered in the story of "Daniel and the Lion's Den." We will have a real Lion in Kidstuf to show the kids what it would be like to live with a Lion over night. There is no reason to worry...I don't think. The Lion will be on a video that we will show. Hopefully this will help the kids know exactly what Daniel had gotten into when living for God and how God was faithful to protect him that night. We are going to talk a lot about bravery, courage, and standing up for what is right because God is there to protect us. 

 

I talk about being "brave" all the time to my son. Actually, I had to last night because he was scared of a fox. I had seen a fox out in the woods yesterday, so I was telling him all about it because he loves animals. He kept saying, "Fox scare me." over and over again. So I had to reason with our 2 year old that the fox was actually scared of him, and God made Carter to be brave. Once he got the ideas that God made him to be brave and God will protect him, he would not be quiet about it. He talked about that fox all night last night. He told Katie, my wife, "I want to help daddy get the fox." That's a big swing from the state of mind where he was afraid of only the idea of the fox. Your kids want to be brave and courageous for a cause like Daniel was. They dream about this kind of stuff...I'm not joking. Make sure they know there is only one cause to be brave for in their life. That cause is the glory of God.

 

Here are the details for this Sunday:

Scripture: Daniel 6 - Daniel and the Lion's Den
Memory Verse:  Psalm 56:3 “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.”    
Prayer for the Nations: Thailand 

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - November 15

Hey Everyone!

Sunday is a different kind of Sunday for your kids around here. They will be in "Big Church" worshipping along side you during The Great I Am. They don't get to do that very often, but I love it when they do. It helps them form an idea of what happens while they are upstairs in Kidstuf. As you worship make sure that you are intentional to model all out passionate worship to our King. Take advantage of the opportunity to have your child in there with you. 

FYI: There will only be childcare available for birth-Kindergarten on Saturday and Sunday. Make sure you get here on time or even a little early!

 

See you guys Sunday!

Jared Norris

Children's Minister

The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - Nov 10

Hey Everyone!

I love this week's scripture, and I'm fired up to get to teach it tomorrow! It is applicable to every Christian, young or old. Daniel (at a young age) is taken captive by Babylon and removed from his home country to be brainwashed in Babylon and it's culture. The amazing thing is Daniel is faithful. Daniel is faithful for at least 65 years in this intimidating setting! That's amazing to me, especially reading what he faced in his first years there (Daniel 1-6). I want my boys to grow up and be "Daniels". Do you want your kids to grow up and be "Daniels?" I know deep down inside you are saying, "Yes!" Who wouldn't want their kids to be wise, strong, courageous, devout, and sensitive to just name a few things? Ask God to help you on your journey to make disciples of them. Not disciples of sports, dance, or any kind of trade, but genuine disciples of Jesus Christ. It's time to make a move. What's your move?

Here are the details for this Sunday:

Scripture: Daniel 3 - Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah get thrown into the fire!
Memory Verse:  Psalm 56:3 “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.”    
Prayer for the Nations: Thailand 

See you guys tomorrow!

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - November 2

Hey Everyone!

This week is going to be a fun time! It's the story of David and Goliath. I am really excited because I've been studying David's life in my personal walk for the past couple months. Your kids are going to get to see a life size Goliath and be a part of Israel's Army. I'm going to pick the smallest kid in the group to face the 9'9" tall Goliath. Then I'm going to give that small kid a rock and see how it holds up to the shield and sword of Goliath. Without God it doesn't stand a chance! Throughout Kidstuf we will be sharing the truth that even when it's tough we stand up for what is right because God is in all the things that are right in this world!

Here are the details for this Sunday:
Scripture: 1 Samuel 17:1-50 David and Goliath - Stand for what is Right!
Memory Verse:  Psalm 56:3 “When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.”    
Prayer for the Nations: Thailand 

Content Alert: We will be showing the Thailand video from this email on Sunday, November 4th. It has one statement in the prayer you need to be aware of. It states around the 1:13 mark of the video, "A lot of children have contracted AIDS due to being sold into sexual slavery." Please feel the freedom view the video and to remove your child from Kidstuf for this week if you do not feel that content is appropriate for their life at this time. 

Jared Norris

Children's Minister

The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - October 26

Hey Everyone!
 

This is your parent challenge for Wednesday night, Oct. 31. We are taking this opportunity to send our church into the community!

As You Go & As They Come

On Wednesday, Oct. 31, people will turn on their porch lights and welcome total strangers to their homes. It's called Halloween (Trick or Treat). We are taking this opportunity to send our church into the community!  Join us in accepting this open invitation by inviting the people you encounter that night to “The Great I AM: A Worship Encounter with the God who IS!" (Nov. 17-18, 2012).
You can do this in one of two ways:

• “As You Go” from house to house, leave an invitation, or
• “As They Come” to your house, drop an invitation in their sack along with your treat. 


Invitation cards are available at the church office or in the foyer on Sunday morning or Wednesday evening (in front of Thrive Books and Media).
We will have no other church activities on Wednesday night, Oct. 31, 2012.

Here are the details for this Sunday:
Scripture: John 13:1-17 Jesus washes his disciples feet
Memory Verse: Mark 12:30-31 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."
Prayer for the Nations: Taiwan 

FAMILY PLUS Children's - October 19th

Hey Everyone!

 

In this week's story your kids are going to be hearing about forgiveness. Mark is telling us the story of Jesus and the paralyzed man. The friends of the paralyzed man do whatever it takes in order for the man to receive forgiveness from Christ. They overcome barriers that many of us would have never tried to fight. How many of us would have walked through that crowd to get to Jesus? How many of us would have removed the roof of another man's home to get to Jesus? I can guarantee you that the answer is "not many." That is unfortunate!

 

It's time to check your heart and soul: Let's be realistic for a moment. Will you do whatever it takes to lead your kids to the feet of Christ? 

 

If you answered, "Yes!" Then it's going to take courage, perseverance, love, patience, selflessness, and many more things. Are you ready for that? I know you are because God has already been preparing you to take stances in your life to make Him #1.

 

If you answered, "No," then you and I need to talk.  Hopefully your honesty in answering that question has helped you realize that God is calling you to something that you don't feel equipped to do. I want to help you find that calling and equip you to fulfill it. Don't be afraid of the barriers in the way! God can part crowds easily because he once parted a sea. God can remove roofs because he once removed a stone door that held Him in his grave. Let's remove those barriers together because that's how God designed our live's to work.

 

Here is the details that your kids will be dealing with this week:

 

Scripture: Mark 2:1-12 Jesus heals the paralyzed man
Memory Verse: Mark 12:30-31 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."
Prayer for the Nations: Taiwan Allergy Alert: We will be trying some simple noodles from Taiwan this Sunday.

PG-13 Warning for this Sunday's Sermon:
This Sunday our Pastor for Vision and Purpose, Craig Webb, will be teaching from Matthew 5:17-42. In part of this message he will be discussing mature issues related to what Jesus says about adultery and lust. If you are uncomfortable with your young children hearing about these mature subjects please be sure they are in KidStuff Worship, Wee Worship, or Extended Care.

Jared Norris

Children's Minister

The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - October 4

Hey Everyone!

During this Fall break you will probably be spending a lot more time with your kids, which is supposed to be a good thing; however, we would be fools to think our wonderful Fall break plans are going to turn out perfect. Your kids will throw you some curve balls at your plans in the coming weeks. Expect them so you can respond appropriately. If your kids don't challenge your plans and expectations then just come hang out with our boys for about 15 minutes. Katie and I have really had to adjust how we parent given our curve balls. We are having to dialogue, read, experiment and pray about what to do, which isn't always the easiest thing to do. 

In the middle of all of that don't forget that these curve balls and your response shape your kids for a lifetime. And your time with them is fleeting, so give all your energy to glorify God by seeking His will for your family. Do this by following Matthew 7:7 "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you." This is a simple encouragement from Jesus to pray. So go right now and pray for/about your kids. 

Here are the details this week:

Scripture: John 4:1-30 (Samaritan Woman)
Memory Verse: Mark 12:30-31 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."
Prayer for the Nations: Taiwan

**Take note that we will be helping your kids memorize Scripture this month by using a song created around Mark 12:30-31.

As you seek God's will for your family this Fall it could include the following stuff, so consider them carefully!

Family Mission Experience (local missions) - We will start with a pancake breakfast, send your family out together to serve together, and conclude with a bonfire and cookout that evening. This is a simple way to give your kids a taste of serving God!

November 10th, 8am-7pm, $25/family

To signup or for more info see the table in the foyer on Sunday morning.

Operation Christmas Child - We are currently collecting items to be packed and shipped to kids oversees. Your 1st-5th graders will be doing the packing on a Wednesday night in November. See an info center or email me for recommended items.

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - September 28

Hey Everyone!

This week we are talking about obedience in Kidstuf. If your house is like mine then obedience is more than a weekly topic it's an everyday topic for your family. The issue of obedience always makes me think of consequences (probably because I got in tons of trouble as a kid). Let me encourage you toward God's design for consequences in life. Consequences should end up being a part of discipline, not punishment. Let me explain...

 

Discipline is connected with discipleship. In other words, discipline is about making us more like Jesus Christ...more holy! (Hebrews 12:10). Disciplining your children is about making them more like Jesus Christ. There is a love and a goal of forming future character in your child's life. That means even as we discipline our children we have to model Christ.
 

Punishment does not have a goal except a negative consequence to an inappropriate action.

 

All this talk sounds negative, but it is genuinely positive. If God does it because He loves us then we should follow His lead. I say this to be an encouragement to you. If your child is going through something that requires extra attention and consistency in their life in order to build their character toward a more Christ-like character, then we want to know how we can send that same message at church as you are sending at home. Remember we see your kids as we see our own kids, and we want them to be great warriors for God's Kingdom.

 

Here are the details for this week:

 

Scripture: Deuteronomy 5-6:9
Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 3:16 “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives."
Prayer for the Nations: Switzerland

FAMILY PLUS Children's - September 22

Hey Everyone!

 

I am pumped about our time with your kids on Sunday. We are talking about one of the first things that God brought to my attention and I feel is a very specific part of my calling as a pastor. Your kids will be learning that they can "know and apply God's Word to situations they face." 

 

Think about the success of your child in life. What do you want your child to be when they grow up? A dentist? A doctor? A teacher? If you answered those in your mind, that's great, but there is a better answer...Faithful! 

 

Since Carter was an infant God has driven in my head a simple prayer. I constantly pray that my children would be faithful to God and His Kingdom. I pray this when I hold them, when I stand over them, when I lay in bed and think of them, and when we even drive down the road. A faithful walk with God means that Carter and Cohen will need to be able to know God's Word and apply it to their life. How can they resist evil without it? How can they know in an instant what is right and wrong? How can they know what is worthy to give their life to? How can they have the courage to tell those lost and dying souls that surround their lives about the abundant life found in Jesus Christ? 

 

I have a God sized vision for my boys that for surpasses my walk with God, but I know that won't happen unless they "know and apply God's Word to situations they face."

 

If you want to talk about some of these things and about how to specifically get at this in your home, please contact me. I'm available and so are all our other staff. We want to encourage you, empower you, and pray over you and your home! Don't hesitate to email. I know this is on your heart too.

 

Here are the specifics this week:

Scripture: Matthew 6:25-34 (No need to worry)
Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 3:16 “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives."
Prayer for the Nations: Switzerland (Trivia about the country this week)

FAMILY PLUS Children's - August 30

Hey everyone!

We have big news about a new series that we are studying this month! We are going to be learning all about the Bible. For a child to grasp hold of the truth that God's Word is completely true and perfect and can be used in life is priceless (2 Timothy 3:16-17). This is what we are going to be putting our focus on this entire month, so make sure you stay tuned in to what is happening!

Here is the specifics for this week:

Scripture: Jeremiah 36 God's Inspired Word
Memory Verse: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives.”
Prayer for the Nations: Switzerland

My challenge for you this month is simple. Have your kid's bring their Bible to church.Maybe it's time they get a new age appropriate Bible that is easier to use and they can be proud of. My recommendation is to let them pick out a Bible they like, and I personally like using the New Living Translation with kids. This is what we use all the time in the children's ministry. This is pretty simple; however, we don't see many kids who bring their Bibles or who are able to use their Bibles. This month we want to see that change! Join your children's leaders and I to be a part of this change!

FAMILY PLUS Children's - August 26

Hey Everyone!

This week we are going to talk about the courage and bravery it takes to tell the truth, and how we can encourage one another to do that. It took incredible courage for Paul to stand before King Agrippa II and proclaim the truth that Jesus is alive. It took confidence in what he believed to stand before the king with that kind of courage. 

Are you encouraging your kids to be brave and courageous when they face daunting situations? Often times we are not because we tend to measure our obstacles against our own strength instead of God's strength. Teach your kids to measure the situations they face with God's strength, not their own!

Here is what we are studying this week:

Scripture: Acts 25:13-26:32 Paul Spoke to the King
Memory Verse: 1 John 4:14 "We have seen with our own eyes and now testify that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the World."
Prayer for the Nations: Spain - This week we will be learning some Spanish words.

I want to say to all of you (especially the new 1st grade parents) if you have any questions about what, how or why we do something in children's ministry please don't hesitate to call me or email! I always want you to know the door is open. Thank you guys for taking your child's faith seriously.

Jared Norris

Children's Minister

The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - August 3

Hey everyone!

Well it has come and gone, and school is back in session. I have been intentionally praying for your families this week as you get back in your routines. Exciting things are happening in Children's Ministry this week. We have a whole new group of brand new volunteers coming to serve in Kidstuf worship! God has provided new worship leaders, new small group leaders, and a new tech leader! If you would like to help out in Kidstuf on a rotation basis, let me know. I'm still looking for a few small group leaders.

The other exciting thing is Wednesday nights for your children will look completely different than they have in the past. We are running a new schedule, new curriculum, have new teachers, and are getting to use the new area created for recreation on Wednesday nights for your children. Also, we will begin emphasizing scripture memory more on Wednesday nights than ever before. You will get some information on this next Wednesday night.

Celebrate this exciting news! I believe God is going to move your children closer and closer to him, and I want you to be the main player in this movement. Let me know how I can help you!

Here is what we are learning this Sunday:
Scripture: Acts 13-14 (Paul's 1st Missionary Journey)
Memory Verse: 1 John 4:14 "We have seen with our own eyes and now testify that the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the World."
Prayer for the Nations: Spain - For you new folks, we pray for and learn about a different country every month. This helps to expand your child's view of what God is doing around the world.

This month is a simple parent challenge. Your job is to encourage your children. I was convicted on Sunday when Michael began reading the notes from the High Schoolers about what they needed on their journey to move closer to God. Many of the notes that Michael read were about encouragement. The High Schoolers wanted to be encouraged to read their Bible, serve others, to find time for God, etc. If we can positively encourage our kids now by our examples and our words, then when they are in High School they may not say those things. They may be the ones encouraging their peers who didn't have parents with encouraging hearts.

Praying for you!

Jared Norris

Children's Minister

The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - July 26

Hey Everyone!

This week's family plus email is a little different. We have been working hard all week to prepare for Illuminate, and your only task is to come and participate in the event. When I say participate I mean...be ready to worship with your kids, be ready to celebrate the stories of what God is doing in New Generations, and be ready to be challenged to take your family to new heights.

Since this Sunday is a different kind of Sunday, we will have all connect groups (including children's group); however, we will not be having Kidstuf worship at 10:45. That means that your kids will be attending worship with you at 10:45.

See you Sunday!

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - July 22

Hey Everyone!

We just got back in town yesterday afternoon from the high school mission trip to New Orleans. Our high schoolers ran a KidzDays Camp in St. Bernard Parish, LA. It went great! We tripled our attendance from last year, and saw God bring 4 more children into his kingdom! I was blown away by what God did this past week in the Parish. 

Here is what they are learning today:

Scripture: Acts 10 (Peter and Cornelius)

Life Application: I can respect and value all people.

Memory Verse: Acts 22:15 “...for you will be a witness for him to everyone of what you have seen and heard.”

Prayer for the Nations: South Korea 

When it comes to respecting and valuing all people, all humans have a hard time with this. I know this because of the way we act. We make fun of people. We view ourselves more highly than others. We lack compassion for individuals in tough situations. So this brings me to the question of "How can parents make sure their children do their best to respect and value all people?" Here are a few ideas, and maybe you have some ideas about this too. I'd love to hear them. 

5 practical ways to help our kids respect and value others:

1) Expose our children to all kinds and types of people - I specifically am referring to people of different social status, race, etc. We live in a metropolitan area; therefore, this one should be easy. 

2) Eat food from different places - This sounds silly, but to experience something as basic to life as food from another place does help our kids appreciate the people who create that food. 

3) Take your kids to see other places and meet the people there - You can do this several ways. Obviously, you can go to the actual place. The easiest way to do this is via the Internet. Go to Youtube and watch videos of other places. My recommendation is you screen the videos before you show them to your child. 

4) Serve different types and kinds of people - Do something for people from other places. Again, you don't have to go somewhere to serve someone. You can do it from your home and mail it there, or just go into the metro area to find all types of people to serve.

5) Pray for different types and kinds of people - If your child can understand that God wants to help everyone no matter what they look like, smell like, act like, etc, then your child will be will on their way to respecting and valuing all people.

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - July 15

Hey Everyone!

I'm sorry to be getting this to you so late. I try really hard to get these to you on time, but time has been short lately with us having KidzDays in the Glade this past week. By the way, it was a great success! Our best KidzDays to date. This has been a busy and fruitful summer!

Here is what they are learning today...

Scripture: Acts 8:1-3; 9:1-31 (Saul's Conversion)

Life Application:  I can tell people what God has done for me.

Memory Verse: Acts 22:15 “...for you will be a witness for him to everyone of what you have seen and heard.”

Prayer for the Nations: South Korea

This week for your kids all I want you to do is talk to them. Tell them a story of what God has done for you. This is so simple, but do no underrate a task this simple as this. Telling stories has profound impact!

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - July 6

Hey Everyone!

The other day I was watching a talk by Sherry Turkle, a professor at MIT. I'm taking the liberty to sum up this fascinating talk into one sentence..."Though technology helps us connect with more people around the world, we feel more alone now than ever." Check out her talk here. 

This talk made me ask the questions, "Do the kids at The Glade feel alone?" and "If they feel alone, does that mean that we've not done a good job teaching them that in Christ they are never alone?" These thoughts have sorta haunted me. I know none of us believe that a child should ever feel that lonely, gut-wrenching feeling. This is why we are continually shifting all our weekly children's activities to be more centered around relationships.

Here is what they are learning this week...

Scripture: Acts 6:8-7:60 (Stephen Preached to the Sanhedrin)

Life Application:  I do not need to feel alone when standing up for God. 

Memory Verse: Acts 22:15 “...for you will be a witness for him to everyone of what you have seen and heard.”

Prayer for the Nations: South Korea - Allergy Alert: We will be trying a South Korean rice dish that includes eggs.

Your challenge is to think about when your kids feel alone this week, and maybe ask them a few questions about it while you're driving down the road.

^{Romans 8 -} 

^"38 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. ³⁹ No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - June 30

Hey everyone!

Well 2 of our 4 Summer Camps are over and we are starting the month of July. This means that we are halfway through with this Summer. It is flying by! A great summer so far, and I am learning so much this summer from being with these kids. It never ceases to amaze me how much God can continually teach you about life through these kids. 

We just finished a great week at camp with our 3rd-5th graders in Campbellsville, KY. I saw God work in ways that I didn't expect. One of our days I could sense that God was about to do something big, so I kept praying and began texting others in our church to intercede for our kids. That night I saw something big for sure, but it wasn't what I was expecting. I was thinking that God might save a child or something like that, but instead God began to free some of these kids from the burdens that they carry in life. May God continue that work in the lives of our children!

This month in Kidstuf we start a new series in the book of Acts. I'm pumped! I've been studying Acts for the past 3 months, so this is going to be fun for me to teach. It's all about the Church and what happened in those first years.

Here is what they are learning this week...

Scripture: Acts 2; 4:1-22; 6:1-7

Life Application:  I can serve in my church

Memory Verse: Acts 22:15 “...for you will be a witness for him to everyone of what you have seen and heard.”

Prayer for the Nations: South Korea

Since this is all about the Church, I want you to think about how you serve the church. In what ways do you serve? Teach? Lead? First Impressions? Etc? 

Now I want you to think about how your kids can assist you in your service. I've seen kids help hand our bulletins. I've seen kids help their parents get ready to teach. How can you show them that they should be serving the church?

Maybe you don't serve anywhere. If you would like to start thinking about it let me know. I would love to talk about your gifts or put you in touch with someone else who can. I want you to live a fulfilled live in Christ and using your gifts is part of that kind of life. 

Don't forget about KidzDays in the Glade (July 9-13). Register at any info center in the church or online till July 1st!

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

Day 4 - OMC

Here are a bunch of pictures from today's main event...OMC! Enjoy!

We will be leaving out tomorrow morning around 9:30CST. Around the halfway point we will stop at a Kentucky State Park to have a picnic lunch and let the kids stretch their legs. We will call when we are an hour or so away. See you tomorrow!

Day 3 at camp

Sorry I'm a little late getting this out. I had some responsibilities that had to get done last night.

Here is a recap from yesterday...




The girls making up and singing songs. This is still happening at breakfast as we speak.




Cameron Croney being a "ninja".




Ben Ferguson on stage playing a game.



Josh Ferguson on stage peeling a banana with his feet.




Hope Davidson blindfolded and getting ready to play a game.




Adrianna and Logan cutting up before the party last night.




Nic Weir showing off his dance moves. I think he has danced all week so far.

Worship was great last night. We focused on "taking a stand" in life. In other words, God has called each of us to take a stand in life. Whether it be for the first time (trusting Jesus as Savior) or another time (standing up for what is right).

Today is the pinnacle of camp for the kids...it's OMC. They literally paint themselves up for this massive game. Be sure to check back later or check Jesse McKay's Facebook for pics of OMC.

Day 2 of camp is done!

Day 2 of camp is done and it was a great one.

Your kids are hilarious! We have laughed and laughed as they have started to come out of their shells.

We started the day together as a group. Then your kids parted ways by their grade level for bible study and rec. By the time that was over it was time for lunch, then their track times. It was a scorcher, but we have a rule at camp that you must drink one entire glass of water before you can have any soda. A couple of years ago I passed out at camp due to the combination of a sprained ankle and dehydration. It's a funny story that you will have to ask my wife to tell you. All that to say I am very sensitive to keeping your kids hydrated.

Worship tonight was great, but church group is where we saw God move. We broke the kids up into small groups to get them to talk more and it worked! I personally had a great conversation with one of our boys about sin and it's consequences and God fixed that through Jesus. It was at least a 20 min conversation. Keep praying for the kids. This is one of the best groups of kids I have ever brought to camp.

I will leave you with a couple of pictures for the road. Please check Jesse McKay's (he is one of our group leaders) Facebook for tons of other pictures.



Ben Ferguson eating his 5th roll.




Connor Ross on stage playing a game during our party. We had only a couple of our kids onstage but a ton of our group leaders got called up.

Check back tomorrow night!

FAMILY PLUS Children's - June 22

Hey Everyone!

Technically, we just started Summer, but realistically we are right in the middle of all our Summer activities. We just completed our best Summer Jam to date in the history of this church! It was an incredible experience. God blessed all our changes this year. Some key components to celebrate are..

- we were up approx 14% in attendance from last year.

- our 4th and 5th grade attendance was up approx 40% from last year (not typical in most churches).

We were able to have some significant conversations with kids this year. One conversation happened late Friday afternoon during the clean up process. A child asked me about baptism, so we sat down on some steps and talked about it. At the end I mentioned that Jesus one day would return and "get us". He said, "what do you mean?" I went on to explain that Jesus would return to collect those who believe in his substitionary death and resurrection (I didn't say it with those big words) and take them to Heaven to live forever with God. The child was so caught up in this truth that he yelled, "AWESOME!"  

I pray that the truth of God will captivate your child's heart too. One way God will use you to do this is through your conversations with your kids. Talk to them about what they are learning!

Here is what your kids will be learning about this Sunday...

Scripture: Luke 15 (Three Parables)

Life Application:  I can know God loves and cares for me.

Memory Verse: Philippians 4:19 "And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus." 

Prayer for the Nations: South Africa

Pray for us! We leave to take 30 3rd-5th graders to Kentucky for camp Saturday afternoon. 

Also, Don't forget to sign up for KidzDays camp and Preschool Day Camp (July 9-13, 9am-3pm).

Jared Norris
Children's Minister
The Glade Church

FAMILY PLUS Children's - June 8

Hey everyone!

It's Friday and we are in full Summer Jam mode around here. Today's to-do list has all kinds of final decorating stuff going on, and we will be working on worship preparation too. This year's worship is going to have a completely different feel. I am soooooo excited for Summer Jam to happen. I can't wait for the kids to start rolling in on Monday at 9am. Please be praying for Summer Jam. There is a lot new things happening this year. If you haven't registered your kids yet, you can do so on Sunday.

Here is what your kids will be learning about this Sunday...

Scripture: John 6:1-15 (Jesus fed Five Thousand)

Life Application:  I can trust God to provide for my needs.

Memory Verse: Philippians 4:19 "And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus." 

Prayer for the Nations: South Africa

This Sunday I'm going to ask one of your kids to recreate the story of Jesus feeding the 5000. I will give them 5 slices of bread and 2 goldfish crackers and see if they are able to have the same results that Jesus had. Of course, they won't be able, but that's the point. We are not divine like Jesus; we have fallen short (Rom 3:23). Therefore, we need help. We need help on a spiritual level (salvation), and we need help on a physical level (food, clothes, etc.). This is why Jesus went around preaching AND healing. Our sin has put us in the place where we need help, and Jesus is there to provide help spiritually and physically.

This week's parent challenge is simple. Ask them these questions....

1) What is an example of something that you can't do?

2) Why can't you do it?

3) Does that mean that you need help doing some things in life?

4) Talk about things in your life that you need help with, and relate that back to Jesus being the ultimate provider of everything, even help!

FAMILY PLUS Children's - June 3

Hey everyone!

 We are gearing up for Summer Jam around here. I hope you are too. We have a few more details to take care of and a couple more leaders to recruit, and then we will be ready for your kids. I'm pretty excited about all the new things that your kids will experience this year! Make sure they are apart of what God is doing June 11-15 from 9am-12:30pm!

Details for this Sunday:

Scripture:  Mark 4:35-41 (Jesus calmed the storm)

Life Application:  I can trust God to help me.

Memory Verse: Philippians 4:19 "And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus." 

Prayer for the Nations: South Africa

Last week I felt led to tell them that just like Jesus called his disciples, he wants to call your children to that kind of life. A life that is wholly devoted to God. This week we will try to put to rest the fears that our kids may have by talking about trusting God. Don't tell your kids this, but they will get a little wet this week when we talk about Jesus calming the storm. I'm going to have our leaders mist them with water when I get into describing the storm. I am simply using this for effect. What techniques do you use for effect in your child's life? How do you emphasize something for them? And most importantly, what kind of things do you emphasize?

Do you emphasize their walk with Christ? I believe I need to confess a moment. That last question pierced my soul a bit. It's tough balancing all the things we do as parents. You want to be great at your job and provide for your family, so you work hard and long hours to get it done just right. You want to have a social life, so you make sure you get time in with your friends. Then there are the countless other things that we value and want to get done sometime in our life. These are short-term and long-term things. These are the things we emphasize often, and these short-term and long-term things don't stand up to the eternal things that we need to emphasize. 

Emphasize something worthy of time and energy being put into this weekend. Emphasize something eternal this weekend.

Prayer for you: Father, may the families at The Glade Church seek first Your kingdom and emphasize You alone this weekend. Let this be done for the sake of the new generation coming after us!

Jared Norris

Children's Minister

The Glade Church