About Jesus Kidz!

Hi, Parents & JesusKidz

It's such an honor to update you on what's going on in ALM's children's ministry. If your child has graduated from "Noah's Babies" (ages 0-2), then this is the place for him or her. JesusKidz has three levels: Pre-K (ages 3 and 4), ages 5 to 7, and ages 8 to 12. On Sundays and Wednesdays, children receive instruction from the Word of God in an exciting, interactive manner. At Abundant Life, we also believe one is never too young to begin training in the service of God. Consequently, our young people are involved in creating skits, songs, and artwork that reflect what they are learning. They participate in a children's choir on a monthly basis, where a love for God and worship are emphasized.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

End-of-Year Greeting

Hi, JesusKidz!

Just a shout-out to say how proud of you guys we are for working hard and putting out a very thoughtful play this past week. To those who helped write and act it out, we praise God for your willingness to be used of Him in a special way. We also want to say thanks for helping take care of our friend from Nicaragua, Fernanda. We've successfully sent 25 dollars every month since the month of July this year to be a blessing to her.

I believe God is preparing us for even more service-related activities in the upcoming year, so get ready, JesusKidz and parents. Being used by God is the most wonderful thing we could ever do with our lives. Be seeing you soon!

Monday, August 16, 2010

Kids' Camp 2010: "All Out for Jesus!"

Hi, Jesuskidz and Parents! Words cannot describe how awesome Kids' Camp 2010 was. For three glorious days, Jesuskidz and other children from our community participated in various activities. They learned about biblical figures who were "all out for Jesus". They danced; they practiced super drumline beats. They also practiced the songs of total devotion in our choir sessions. And they had a bouncing good time on the bounce houses from Putnam County's own Spacewalk (for more information, you can look them up at www. spacewalk.com).

None of this would have been possible without help from Children's Church workers, parents, and our wonderful pastoral staff. Special thanks goes to Mrs. Georgie, who did amazing organization of Kids' Camp. We'd also like to express our deepest thanks to Mrs. Alicia, our dance teacher, and Mrs. Andrea Wells, the phenomenal band teacher from Jenkins Middle School.

To the following people, you have our heartfelt appreciation:

Ms. Reco -- Bible teacher, ages 4-5
Pastor Chris-- Bible teacher, ages 6-7
Mrs. Latoya -- Bible teacher, ages 10-12
Mrs. Lynn and Ms. Helen -- crafts
All the teens who supervisd playtime and lunchtime
Tender Loving Care Daycare (Aundrey and Nikki Jackson)

Finally, we're most grateful to all the parents who came out to support their children on Friday, July 30th at 7 pm. Your kids are a blessing, and we can't wait to see what will unfold for Kids' Camp 2011. See you soon!

Friday, July 16, 2010

Almost Here!

Hey, Jesuskidz! Are you excited? We sure are! Spaces are filling up slowly but surely as parents catch the vision of how awesome Kids' Camp 2010 is going to be. We wanted to remind parents that Friday the 30th of July at 7 pm, you all are invited to come and see what your kids learned during the camp.

Thanks to all Jesuskidz, parents, church members, and members of the community who helped us raise money as well as gave us donations towards the camp. We appreciate everyone who participated. This Saturday, July 24th, we're hoping to have a ribs sale at the church at 11 am, all profits going to the camp. On Sunday the 25th, we're also having a bake sale after church. There will be delicious desserts for only $1. We just want to do everything we can to raise the money we need for a successful camp.

More updates and reminders to come soon...

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Kids' Camp!!!

Jesuskidz, are you ready? Kids' camp is on the way! It will be on the 28th, 29th, 30th, and 31st of July, 2010. Our theme for this year is in line with what's being preached in our house: "ALL OUT FOR JESUS". We want our children to understand that TOTAL DEVOTION is the way to live for everyone, not just adults. Our camp will be a great time of learning the Word, but also lots of fun. We'll have the bounce houses again in the sanctuary. In addition to that, we'll have crafts, music, and on Friday the 30th, we'll be sleeping over.

We've come up with an easy way for parents to raise money for the camp. Krispy Kreme donut sales have begun, and any parent who can sell 20 boxes or more will not have to pay the $20 for the first child, $10 for the second child, and $5 each for additional children. Please see Ms. Ebony Moore if you'd like to help with this fundraiser, which will end on July 14th. Pick-up for the donuts will be Friday, July 16th.

We are SO excited about everything we have planned for this time. Age groups for the camp will be as follows:

4-5
6-7
8-9
10-12

Only ages 6-12 will be participating in the sleepover, unless parents of younger children would like to stay with their kids that night.

Spaces are filling up fast, so please sign up this Sunday at the Welcome Center. We will only be able to take the first 20 kids from each age group.

More details on Kids' Camp will be coming soon, so talk to you later...

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Thank God for Fathers!

This Week's Passage: Ephesians 6: 1-4
Memory Verses: Eph. 6: 2-3

In this day and age, when so many young people are not being taught the Word of God, there is a lot more disrespect taking place between children and adults. Even if they respect their own parents, they may still go to school and talk to the grown-ups there as if they were grown.

JesusKidz, God's Word is true. No matter how hard it may seem, we want to encourage you NEVER to show disrespect to your parents or other grown-ups. God wants you to be blessed, and He wants your days to be long upon the earth. As Father's Day comes closer, thank God for your dad. Go out of your way to show him that you're blessed because he's in your life. For those who may not have dads, know that God has always been, and will always be there for you. Rejoice today that your future is bright because God has great plans for you.

Don't forget to write comments sharing with us how you feel about your father or guardian. Wish that person Happy Father's Day this week. We'll be talking again soon!

Saturday, June 5, 2010

God's Law: The Only Way to Live

This Week's Passage: Psalm 119: 9-16
Memory Verses: Ps. 119: 9 & 11

Picture with me a huge yard with everything wonderful for kids to play with that you can imagine: jungle gyms, bounce houses, materials for every sport you can think of, a big swimming pool, and on and on. But around this yard is a high gate that you can't see over, and it's locked so that you won't make the mistake of going out. Out there is a nasty swamp with deadly animals just waiting to gobble you up if you come out of that gate.

JesusKidz, that gate is God's law. Every law He has put in place is to protect you from the enemy's trap. The Bible says that the enemy is a thief who comes only to steal from, kill and destroy you. As long as you stay inside His law, you are protected and you can enjoy all the blessings He has prepared for you as His children. So begin to read God's word and hide it in your heart so the enemy will not be able to cause you to sin or turn away from God. He loves you and only wants the best for you.

Memorize these two verses, and you'll begin to see how blessed you'll be. I'll be asking you to recite it, so get started. Talk to you soon...

Friday, May 21, 2010

JesusKidz Making a Difference!

This Week's Passage: Matthew 25: 31-46
Memory Verses: Matt.25: 35-36

Beginning the first week of June, JesusKidz will have an opportunity to be a blessing to a young lady from the South American nation of Nicaragua named Fernanda. When I shared this with the young people a few weeks ago, they immediately began turning in money that would be going to help Fernanda and her family. All they wanted to know was how old she was (7), and would she be getting the money directly (yes).

If only we adults could be as willing as these young people are to help spread the love of God by giving some of what we've been given. I informed them that we will be sending Fernanda and her family $25 every month from now on, and they've already collected one-fifth of that amount. JesusKidz, for your faith, I'd like to say thank you and God bless you all from the bottom of our hearts. If you've read this passage, you can see how important helping those who can't help themselves is to God.

To JesusKidz parents, we'd like you to know that we appreciate you for allowing your children to be givers into the kingdom. Each month, we're asking for a minimum of $1 from each child ages 8-12. Whatever we collect over the monthly fee we're required to send to an orgnization called "People Helping People" will carry over to the next month. If you have any questions, please contact us at the church. Be on the lookout for a picture and updates of Fernanda.

God Bless, and talk to you all soon...

Monday, May 3, 2010

Honor Your Mother

This Week's Passage: Proverbs 31:10-31
Memory Verse: Prov. 31:28

This week, we're going to be celebrating Mother's Day. But when was the last time you truly did something special for your mother -- not because someone told you to, but because you KNOW she is awesome? This passage is a description of all the things a godly mother and wife does. Often, mom is the first to wake up and the last to go to bed. She makes great sacrifices for the family, sometimes going without so her children can have the best.

All this week, I encourage you, JesusKidz, to do special things for your mom or female guardian. Let her know that you appreciate her for who she is in your life. Pray for her, and ask God to continue to give her strength to do all the things she needs to do. On Saturday, May 8th, go with Mom to the Ravine Gardens for the special Mother's Day picnic that's going on just to let her know you love to spend time with her.

Then, on Sunday, May 9th, do your very best to help Dad make her day special. Show mom you love her after church, too -- let her put her feet up and wash the dishes for her so she doesn't have to lift a finger. That will really make mom feel special.

Before you go, drop a few lines telling us about what makes your mom special. Talk to you soon!

Monday, April 26, 2010

Shout-Out to JesusKidz on Honor Roll

Yesterday, at least 22 JesusKidz were recognized at church for their outstanding academic performance during the 3rd 9 weeks of this school year. Pastors Chad and Nette wanted to encourage these young people to keep doing their best. We're very proud of you all who go to school everyday and give it your best shot. Don't forget to seek God first, because He will help you accomplish everything you desire to do.

For those of you who didn't quite make it this time, we say don't give up. Nothing is impossible with God, and you still have a nine weeks period to bring your grades up. We're looking forward to seeing many more Jesuskidz show up with your report card soon. Parents, if there's anything we in the Children's Ministry can do to help your child succeed, please contact us. Together, we can do it! Be blessed.

Monday, April 19, 2010

Remember Your Creator NOW!

This week's passage: Ecclesiastes 12: 1-7
Memory Verses: Ecc. 12: 1 and 7

We see it on the news everyday: young people are dying just as often as older people are. Am I saying this because I want you to be afraid? No, not at all. Actually, it's just a gentle reminder of how short life really is. The devil wants you to put off giving God your whole heart and serving Him while you are young because he wants you to use your youth for him, doing all the wrong things.

In this passage, King Solomon, whom we've already met, is giving advice to young people. He says that NOW is the time for you to focus on the things of God -- not when you're too old to really get around and work for Him. You don't want to wait until it's really too late to do the things for God that He really wants you to do. Live for God NOW, while you have the energy to do it.

I have one question for you:

What are some things you can do for God right now while you're young that you can't do when you get old?


Post your comments, JesusKidz!

Thursday, April 15, 2010

JesusKidz Honor Roll-Call

Hi, JesusKidz!

Thanks to all of you who are reading our weekly studies and responding. Now it's your turn to get in the spotlight. Don't forget to bring your 3rd 9 weeks report card to church this Sunday, April 18th, 2010. All JesusKidz who made the A-B honor roll will be recognized by our very own Pastors Chad and Antoinette Willis.

If you didn't quite make it this nine weeks, keep trying, and God will honor your efforts. Know that we are continually praying for you to be everything God has called you to be.

See you on Sunday!

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Just the Right Age!

This Week's Passage: Jeremiah 1:4-10
Memory Verses: Jer. 1: 7-8

Something happened this past week in JesusKidz that reminded me of this passage. Kids ages 8 to 12 came together to lift up the needs of their teachers, friends, classmates, and family members in prayer. It didn't matter whether or not they knew the right words to say to reach God; they just knew that those people needed them, and they knew they were the only ones who could pray for them.

To those of you who were there, I want to encourage you with this word. In this passage, Jeremiah received the word from God Himself that He wanted to use him. I don't know how old Jeremiah was, but he must have been afraid that the older people would laugh at him and think he didn't know what he was doing if he stood up and spoke what God told him to say. If you weren't there Wednesday night, don't worry: we'll be doing more things like spending time in God's presence in prayer in the future.

Read for yourself what God's answer was, and know today that the same promises God gave Jeremiah are for you also.

Here are some questions for you to consider as you think about this word:

1. What did God tell Jeremiah in this passage when he said he was too young?

2. What are some things God can use you to do wherever you are -- at home, at school, and even at church that will bring glory to His Name?

Share your comments with everyone on this subject, JesusKidz!

Sunday, April 4, 2010

Easter Outing Success

I'm so excited to announce that this weekend, April 3rd, AbundantLife Jesus Kidz had a blast with the children of First Assembly and Providence Baptist churches as we joined together to host the city's largest Easter Egg hunt. Thanks to all the children's church workers who participated in this outreach to the community, as well as to the Jesuskidz who came out to have fun collecting eggs.

Of course, we know that candy and Easter bunnies is NOT what Easter is all about. But we do know that it pleases God when we come together in unity to minister to those who may not know Jesus loves them. So we want to say a big "Thank you" to Pastor Doug, the children's pastor at First Assembly of God for inviting us to be a part of this great outreach. Talk to you soon...

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Get Wisdom!

This Week's Passage: Proverbs 4
Memory Verse: Prov. 4: 12

In this passage, a man named Solomon who was one of the greatest kings of Israel is giving advice to young people. He tells them to listen to wise advice, because that is what will allow them to live long. Wisdom is a gift from God that helps us all to make good choices. When we are faced with a decision (not just big things), wisdom from God helps us choose what's best for us in the long run.

Let me give you an example: what if someone gave you a million dollars, and you could buy whatever you wanted? Would you spend your money on the best clothes and shoes, or would you get someone who knew how to handle money to help you figure out the best way to spend (or save) it? As you go through life, you will find that the older you get, you will need wisdom more and more. Why not ask God for wisdom today?

Questions for you to think about:

1. What is at least 1 thing you will receive if you walk in wisdom?

2. Can you give one example when you made a wise choice instead of a foolish one? What were the results of that decision?

Share your thoughts with us, Jesuskidz!

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Study the Word!

This week's passage: 2 Timothy 3:14-16
Memory Verse: 2 Tim. 3: 15

In this passage, Paul is writing a letter to a young man named Timothy who was like a son to him. He is reminding Timothy to hold fast to the Word of God which he's known since he was young. That's just what God wants you to do! He wants you to keep the Word in your heart. Every chance you get to read it, do so. You will read a LOT of books in your lifetime, but none of them will bless you like God's Word will. Make a decision now to spend time in the Word, and ask God to help you remember what it says to you.

This week's questions:

1. If you read the Word, what is it able to do for you?

2. Where do all the words in the Bible come from?

Prayer: God, thank You for giving me Your Word to teach me how to be who You created me to be. Help me to treat Your Word as something important in my life, and let me always live for You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Monday, March 1, 2010

JesusKidz Devotional Challenge

Hi, Parents & JesusKidz!

It's finally here -- the weekly challenge Children's Ministry is presenting to Jesuskidz everywhere from the ages of 8 to 12. Each week, there will be a devotional topic and bible passage for them to study. Then, there will be a question to help them participate in a blog discussion. Parents, kindly allow your kids to spend at least 30 minutes on your home computer. This is truly a great way to stay in touch and help them grow in the Word. Look for the first one soon. Can't wait!

Sunday, February 14, 2010

Valentine's Day Outreach

Hi, Parents & JesusKidz!

It was such a blessing to see the response from parents and church members in general to the Valentine's Day outreach today. The pastoral staff would like to express our appreciation to all of you for giving sacrificially all the candy, helping us bag them, and then joining us to pass it out. We ended up going to four busy shopping areas thanks to our church family: the mall, Publix shopping plaza, Wal-mart, and the shopping plaza in East Palatka.

I was amazed to see the look of surprise on the faces of some of the people who graciously accepted the candy and ALM cards. But most of all, I think the kids were so thrilled to be helping the grown-ups pass them out. God is already giving us ideas for making our next outreach even more effective.

Thanks again to our church family for pitching in, especially the young people who were working right alongside the adults to bag and tie the candy. All God's blessings for such an awesome response from everyone.

Talk to you all soon...

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Upcoming Event

We're so excited about what's going down this Sunday, February 14th, Valentine's Day! After service, the entire church has been invited to accompany JesusKidz to the mall for just a few minutes to pass out candy. Parents, please remember to bring bags of individually-wrapped candy that will be easy to bag. Also, we might want to check out the weather just in case it's really cold, so you can dress your children accordingly. We're believing God for favorable weather conditions so that our first outreach of the year is a memorable one for our children's ministry. It might not be such a big deal to some that they'll be passing out candy, but no act of kindness escapes the Father's heart.

Contact staff at the church if you have any questions, or if you want to bring candy after Wednesday, Feb. 10th. Thanks for all your support.

Talk to you soon...

Sunday, February 7, 2010

JesusKidz Growing in the Lord

Hey, Parents and JesusKidz!

It's an exciting time to be a JesusKid. I know that because God is no respector of persons, and He wants a personal relationship with everyone. No boy or girl is too young to hear His voice and to be touched by Him. Last Wednesday night during praise and worship, we witnessed His power move among parents and children in such a way that it encouraged the teachers at ALM to keep sharing God's Word with a real purpose.

This Sunday, JesusKidz ages 8-12 were challenged to spend time in the Word during the week, finding verses they could memorize NOT because they want to compete with other kids, but because they want to begin to hide the Word in their hearts so He can become real to them on a daily basis.

Parents, in your family worship time, please share with your kids verses they can memorize that they can share with their peers and teachers weekly. Now more than ever before, we need to train them up in God's Word so that they can be the warriors He will use in this end-time harvest.

Talk to you soon...

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

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