In the spirit of keeping our programming for children aligned with the adult programming, we have spent the last number of weeks asking questions that were raised by some of the children who attend Movers and Shakers. For those of us who have young children, or have worked with young children, we know that asking questions comes naturally, especially young, inquisitive minds. A series revolving around kid friendly questions was a logical next step in our programming.
The value in asking questions is to develop a better understanding of ourselves, and even our world. Likewise, as spiritual …
With Family Day scheduled for Monday, February 20, we wanted to create an event to celebrate the gift of our families and the gift of community. What better than a Family Skate! Join us at the Seymour Hannah Sportsplex in St. Catharines from 2:15 to 4:15. It's a great opportunity to lace up the skates, enjoy some hot chocolate, and meet some new people. Everyone is invited!
In lieu of admission, we encourage all participants to bring some non-perishable items for our Homeless Shelter. Thanks in advance and we'll see you on the rink!
In lieu of admission, we encourage all participants to bring some non-perishable items for our Homeless Shelter. Thanks in advance and we'll see you on the rink!
If you find your way entering Movers and Shakers over the next three weeks, you may see us blowing soap bubbles, popping bubble wrap, or competing to determine who can create the biggest bubble using bubble gum. Never a dull moment in Movers and Shakers! Although kicking off our Sunday mornings should be fun and games, the point of such activities is meant to get kids thinking about the bubble they themselves might be living in. Let’s face it, close examination of who we spend our time with, and what we do with our …
Happy New Year Everyone! I trust God has you in a place where you might begin to imagine all that God would do through you and in our church in the coming year. Having a posture that allows God to use all of us as His instruments sets the stage well for 2012! Great things are in store!
Coming off all the celebrations of Christmas has Movers and Shakers eager to start 2012 and ready for a four week series on faith, hope, and love as described by Paul in 1 Corinthians 13: 13. We’ve crafted the coming series …
Coming off all the celebrations of Christmas has Movers and Shakers eager to start 2012 and ready for a four week series on faith, hope, and love as described by Paul in 1 Corinthians 13: 13. We’ve crafted the coming series …
This Sunday marks our M&S Christmas Celebration. For the past couple of Sundays we have been deliberate in helping our kids know the true meaning of Christmas, the promise given by the prophets long before Jesus came to earth, and then the events surrounding His birth in Bethlehem 2000 years ago. A significant part of the message over the past two weeks has been helping our kids to discover that the gift of Jesus is “A Gift for Everyone”. For that reason, we have intentionally challenged all of our SK to Grade 5 kids …
I bring you good news of great joy for everyone. The Saviour of the world has been born in Bethlehem. (Luke 2: 10, 11)
For young children, the beginning of December and the anticipation of Christmas comes with images of brilliant lights, decorated trees, days off from school, and of course, the joy of receiving and giving gifts. Ask any child what’s special about Christmas, and activity around presents or gifts are likely to become the immediate response. Celebrating Christmas with this kind of festivity is certainly a part of the season, but what if this Christmas …
For young children, the beginning of December and the anticipation of Christmas comes with images of brilliant lights, decorated trees, days off from school, and of course, the joy of receiving and giving gifts. Ask any child what’s special about Christmas, and activity around presents or gifts are likely to become the immediate response. Celebrating Christmas with this kind of festivity is certainly a part of the season, but what if this Christmas …
When the conversation of Vineland Mennonite Brethren Church becoming a part of Southridge started to gain momentum this fall, Carole and I were quite excited for our Vineland community. Not only were we eager to see where these conversations would lead, and how our church might impact a community like Vineland, we were certain, that if this outcome were realized, we would step up and make this our home location. As residents of Vineland, the thought of investing in the local church, and working to assist the Southridge expression of Vineland to become a thriving, God honouring place …
As one of the eldest on staff (not something I really want to broadcast) I’ve had to endure my share of abuse over my years at SR, tormented with titles like “Grandpa” (and still without grandchildren), “Old Guy”, and even our resident “Senior Citizen”. Given the source of such remarks and the perceived lack of maturity, I would simply downplay the ridicule, knowing full well, that one day, they too will grow up. It’s all in good fun, right? And besides, I know I have done my …
M&S puppets hit the stage this weekend in all locations! That’s right! This Sunday, Andy, Max, Becky, and eventually their good friend Kenny show up at M&S to launch a series called "Show and Tell". In an effort to communicate to our kids that we can sometimes do things that are “unchristian”, causing others to run away from Christ as opposed to running towards Christ, our puppet …
There are many special moments on a typical Sunday morning in Movers and Shakers but there’s one in particular that gives cause for celebration and thanksgiving. In particular, it’s those moments on a Sunday morning when you sense God’s presence, God working in and through our leaders, and of even greater significance, God shaping young hearts and minds for His purposes.
Like most Sunday mornings, M&S begins with kids arriving in all locations, pouring into our gym environments full of energy, and eager to hang out with friends and leaders, and …
Like most Sunday mornings, M&S begins with kids arriving in all locations, pouring into our gym environments full of energy, and eager to hang out with friends and leaders, and …
As a church, including adults, youth, and children too, we are about to begin a wonderful adventure exploring the story of Jonah. For our Kid’s Programming Team, we were thrilled and eager to face the challenge of preparing a series on Jonah. After all, the story of Jonah has always been perceived as a primary staple for young children when we think of sharing the fundamental stories of the Old Testament.
So what are we hoping to accomplish over the next four Sundays in “What’s Eating Jonah?” One primary objective …
So what are we hoping to accomplish over the next four Sundays in “What’s Eating Jonah?” One primary objective …
Over the past month our church has been having some significant conversations about heaven, hell, and about God’s desire for us as a community to see that eternity matters to God. Even beyond, the series challenges us to see that the eternity of all people matters to God. These conversations are so important, and I love our church for challenging us to live “eternity focused” lives.
In Movers and Shakers, our first month of the ministry season has also been eternity driven! In our attempt to bring the conversation of eternity …
In Movers and Shakers, our first month of the ministry season has also been eternity driven! In our attempt to bring the conversation of eternity …
For years I have always loved September because of the sporting activity it brought into our household. As a Dad of three girls who were all committed to school or community sports, I was always eager to find my way to their games. It didn't matter if they were playing basketball, soccer, or volleyball, I would do all I can to attend their games, covering ground from Beamsville to Fort Erie just to be a part of the experience. I loved to spectate their play. With the girls married off and out of the house, …
We are only days away from another school year. Like any September this tends to be the time of year when a parent is bombarded with requests and updates to ensure a smooth beginning, especially as it relates to school.
As Children’s Ministry, we have a few updates of our own. I’ve generated a list of things to keep in mind to help you better understand what to expect as a new ministry season is about to launch.
· September 4: In Movers and Shakers it’s our …
As Children’s Ministry, we have a few updates of our own. I’ve generated a list of things to keep in mind to help you better understand what to expect as a new ministry season is about to launch.
· September 4: In Movers and Shakers it’s our …
When it comes to the church, what would be your child’s perspective? Is the church just a building we frequent once a week, or is the church comprised of people who make up the family of God, wanting to live their entire lives full out Him? It would be interesting to have this conversation with your child. Try to unpack that with them…………that’s what we intend to do over the next three Sundays in our Follow You series, looking specifically at what it means to be “…
Did you BURP today?
I know what you’re thinking….that’s disgusting…..what in the world is our Children’s Pastor up to now? Is this really what we pay him to do with our youngsters?
I have to admit….this sounds terrible, but let me explain……..it’s actually an effective way to inspire kids to be “Devoted to His Word”.
Some time ago we wanted to develop in young children a strategy which would help kids make Bible reading a big part of their …
I know what you’re thinking….that’s disgusting…..what in the world is our Children’s Pastor up to now? Is this really what we pay him to do with our youngsters?
I have to admit….this sounds terrible, but let me explain……..it’s actually an effective way to inspire kids to be “Devoted to His Word”.
Some time ago we wanted to develop in young children a strategy which would help kids make Bible reading a big part of their …
Are you listening? How many times do we confront our children with this important question, helping them to stay focused and to follow our lead as parents. We want so much for our kids to listen.
God’s heart is exactly the same……God wants His children to listen for His voice. Listening to the voice of God is not something that comes naturally for us as followers of Christ. We may like to talk to God in our prayers……asking for things, thanking him, and making our requests known. …
God’s heart is exactly the same……God wants His children to listen for His voice. Listening to the voice of God is not something that comes naturally for us as followers of Christ. We may like to talk to God in our prayers……asking for things, thanking him, and making our requests known. …
Devoted to Prayer……last Sunday we launched “Follow You”, a summer series for JK to Grade 4 intended to spark a devotion for Christ. An important part in fostering a love for Jesus is making prayer time a part of our daily rhythm. What would our families look like if each day we made the effort to bow our heads and acknowledge our need for God’s presence in our lives as a family, as it relates to our work, our play, and as we relate to each other? The best conversation we can …
It’s the time of year when families may be preparing for vacations, summer camps, or other outings. As you are out and about, we hope you enjoy God’s creation and remain safe. At the same time, we hope you’ll continue to join us for Movers and Shakers each Sunday when you can. This weekend we kick off a series called “Follow You”. The first four weeks will be “Devoted to Prayer”, helping our kids to see that conversation with God is as normal as everyday conversation …
Honduran Project Nets Big Results….a big thank you to the families of Movers and Shakers for raising $870.00 to support our friends in Honduras…….these funds will support the two children in a school sponsorship program, along with two suitcases full of school supplies, toys, and other kid-friendly items. What a great way to pour love on God’s kids in Honduras. Way to go everyone! God is honoured by your kindness!
Hey fans of the Big Apple!
Can you believe it? This is our final Sunday at the Big Apple! It’s been an amazing five weeks as we have connected with faith, with love, with trust, and with others. This week we "Connect with Life" ........a life full out for God and centred on Jesus........what does that mean? Can Jesus even be part of our lives when we are waiting for a crossing guard named Brooklyn to give us the right to cross? Come to the Big Apple and find out!
…
Can you believe it? This is our final Sunday at the Big Apple! It’s been an amazing five weeks as we have connected with faith, with love, with trust, and with others. This week we "Connect with Life" ........a life full out for God and centred on Jesus........what does that mean? Can Jesus even be part of our lives when we are waiting for a crossing guard named Brooklyn to give us the right to cross? Come to the Big Apple and find out!
…
Good morning sightseers at the Big Apple!
It's hard to believe we've already spent three weeks at the Big Apple. We have certainly met some interesting characters who have challenged us to connect with faith, connect with love, and connect with trust. And hanging out in our small groups while doing some different activities has made the visit to the big city quite memorable.
But let's be honest, you cannot visit the Big Apple without meeting Joe the Hotdog Vendor and some of his friends. Maybe Joe even has a tasty dog to …
It's hard to believe we've already spent three weeks at the Big Apple. We have certainly met some interesting characters who have challenged us to connect with faith, connect with love, and connect with trust. And hanging out in our small groups while doing some different activities has made the visit to the big city quite memorable.
But let's be honest, you cannot visit the Big Apple without meeting Joe the Hotdog Vendor and some of his friends. Maybe Joe even has a tasty dog to …
Hey friends of the Big Apple Adventure!
Last week, children across three locations were off to the big city to begin the Big Apple Adventure. I trust that many of you are listening to the songs since each family was given a CD with the music. It was a great morning of singing, teaching (meeting Tony the taxi driver) and fulfilling the demands of the photo scavenger hunt. All pictures will be on display this weekend in our count down!
If week one can be summed up as "Connect with …
Last week, children across three locations were off to the big city to begin the Big Apple Adventure. I trust that many of you are listening to the songs since each family was given a CD with the music. It was a great morning of singing, teaching (meeting Tony the taxi driver) and fulfilling the demands of the photo scavenger hunt. All pictures will be on display this weekend in our count down!
If week one can be summed up as "Connect with …
Good morning everyone!
Are you ready for an M&S field trip? Imagine taking more than 175 kids across three locations on a field trip to New York City......that's right.....the Big Apple. Wouldn't that be an experience? It would certainly be a trip to remember. That's exactly what we hoping to accomplish over the next five Sundays.......a trip to remember, right here at M&S!
This Sunday we begin the Big Apple Adventure. It will look and feel different than …
Are you ready for an M&S field trip? Imagine taking more than 175 kids across three locations on a field trip to New York City......that's right.....the Big Apple. Wouldn't that be an experience? It would certainly be a trip to remember. That's exactly what we hoping to accomplish over the next five Sundays.......a trip to remember, right here at M&S!
This Sunday we begin the Big Apple Adventure. It will look and feel different than …
Recent News
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Reflect: I AM the Resurrection and the Life (May 20, 2012)
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Conference: Comfort and Hope, June 8-10, 2012
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Reflect: I AM the Resurrection and the Life (May 20, 2012)
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A Father to the Fatherless?
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Conference: Comfort and Hope, June 8-10, 2012
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Inspiration
Deepening our relationship with God.
Connection Strengthening our relationships with each other.
Action Engaging in relationships with those in need.
Participation Unifying our relationship as a church family.
Students Investing in our students from Grades 6-12.
Kids Investing in our kids from pre-school to Grade 5.
Southridge Now Stay in the loop on events and activities with weekly video news.
Twitter The current buzz about Southridge in Twitterland.
Prayer Wall Updates from our community Prayer Wall
Connection Strengthening our relationships with each other.
Action Engaging in relationships with those in need.
Participation Unifying our relationship as a church family.
Students Investing in our students from Grades 6-12.
Kids Investing in our kids from pre-school to Grade 5.
Southridge Now Stay in the loop on events and activities with weekly video news.
Twitter The current buzz about Southridge in Twitterland.
Prayer Wall Updates from our community Prayer Wall