St John’s Kids – 13 December 2020

St John’s Kids – 13 December 2020

 This week is the third Sunday of Advent – the season in the lead up to Christmas, when we prepare for the coming of Jesus. In our services, we have been lighting a candle each week to remind us that Jesus brings light into the world.

For those of you who have created an advent wreath at home, light the third candle, JOY, this week. (If you have used coloured candles, this is the pink/rose one.)

  • Discuss together what you think joy is – great happiness, pure bliss, overwhelming gladness?
  • What brings you joy?
  • What part of the Christmas story makes you most happy?
  • What are some ways that your family can bring joy to others this Christmas?

We rejoice because Jesus came to live on earth. When we accept him as our friend, he sends his Spirit to live in us and we experience the joy of salvation and can joyfully anticipate his second coming.

 

Advent Activity:

We have been encouraging intentionality this Advent, making Jesus the main focus of the season, rather than Santa, presents and other commercial aspects of Christmas.

Make a Nativity Story Cube to help children tell and discuss the Christmas story. Find full colour and colour-in versions here. Print and cut out, create the cube using glue or sticky tape, then take turns rolling the cube and talking about whichever picture lands face up. See what the children remember and what they like best about the Christmas story.

Catch up on previous weeks’ blog post Advent activities:

 

Services & Events:

Sunday 13 December – Stars in the Shire

6:30pm live on YouTube, Community Carols service. Note: this is our only service today.

We cannot gather as a whole community on Coventry Oval this year, but we can meet in each other’s homes, create watch parties, and celebrate with carols and the Christmas story.

Wednesday 16 December – Quiet Christmas

7:30pm live on YouTube.

This year has been a challenge for most people. This reflective Christmas service may suit those struggling to get into the festive spirit.

Sunday 20 December – St John’s Kids Family Picnic

11:30am – 3:30pm, Anthony Beale Reserve Playground, 277 St Helena Road.

Some of the St John’s Kids team will be there with Christmas activity packs for the kids. So, come for lunch (BYO picnic / there are also BBQ facilities available) or an afternoon play, or just drop by for a quick hello and collect your pack if you have other commitments that day. We look forward to seeing you in-person!

Thursday 24 December – Christmas Eve Family Service

5:00pm premiere on YouTube.

This fun, short service features carols and a drama performed by St John’s Kids.

Thursday 24 December – Christmas Eve Traditional Service

7pm & 11pm premieres on YouTube.

A candlelight Christmas service featuring carols and an inspiring message.

** Note: both the Family Service and the Traditional Service will be available from Mon 21 Dec. If the premiere times don’t suit, gather family and/or friends together and watch at your convenience at another time.

Friday 25 December – Christmas Day Communion

8:30am, short Communion service hosted on Zoom. (Meeting details to be advised.)

Thursday 31 December – New Year’s Eve Picnic Dinner

An open invitation is extended, particularly to families with young children for whom midnight celebrations may be improbably, to celebrate together.

5:00pm, Anthony Beale Reserve Playground. BYO Picnic Dinner – BBQ facilities are available.

 

 

Have a great week!

Kylie – Children & Families’ Minister

 

 

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