Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Heroes- And What They Taught Me (Redo)

At the beginning of November I recorded a video blog  talking about some of the ministers who have influenced me and my ministry. I thought everything uploaded fine..but it didn't. So here is my attempt at uploading it again. I didnt want anyone to be confused when I am talking about Pastor Appreciation Month when that was clearly in October.






Thankfully Growing at The Grove!

Miss Megan

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Thanksgiving Traditions

Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching, and all too often it is the forgotten holiday in Children's Ministry. It is squished between Fall Festivals and Happy Birthday Jesus parties. I myself have caught myself throwing something together the weekend of thanksgiving both in the midweek and weekend to appease the lesser crowds that stick around for the holiday.
In recent years I have been trying to do better to give this holiday the celebration that it is due. Thanksgiving is such an important holiday to teach kids about. Thankfulness is something we should practice all year round, so it deserves its focus at least once a year.

One of my favorite things to do that has become somewhat of a tradition that has moved with me is watching A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. I know you are all thinking what is spiritual about that? But here's the thing. This video though it may be silly in parts reminds us where thanksgiving started. Linus again steps up and informs us that thanksgiving began with a group of pilgrims and indians who were thankful that they had survived the past year when so many had not and that they were able to find a peace among themselves.  This video also reminds us that thanksgiving isn't about our elaborate decorations or the majestic and mouthwatering meal laid out before us. It's about gathering together with those you love and remembering the blessings God has given us. With a ping pong table, popcorn, jelly beans, and buttered toast this diverse group of kids have managed to teach us a lesson on not getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season but to stop and reflect on what we can be thankful for.

There are many other ways to teach kids about Thanksgiving and probably many more spiritual than the Peanuts gang but for now I am going to stick to my tradition and pop some popcorn, buy a bag of jelly beans and have some fun watching A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving with the kiddoes.

I would love to hear from you what some of your traditions or ideas for celebrating Thanksgiving are. How do you keep the focus on this holiday?

Thankfully Growing at The Grove!
Miss Megan