Joy: Helping others find joy

IWe can find joy when we remember that God sent Jesus for us, and when we celebrate what God is doing in the world around us.

When you think of summer, maybe you think of ice cream, pool parties, sunshine, and friendships, and it leaves you feeling joyful inside. However, not everyone feels that way. Whether you enjoy spending time with friends or family, finding people you connect with and who bring you joy can help to make harder moments easier. When you are having a hard time finding joy, try looking to others who have found joy through their faith in Jesus and learn from their example.

Sometimes we may need to look closer or in different ways, and other times, we may have to help someone else to do the same. In Romans 12:15, Paul wrote to the church in Rome about what true love looked like. Part of sharing the love of Jesus means showing empathy and being sad with others who were sad or joyful with others who were joyful. When we do that, we can help others to see not only our love, but the love of Jesus too.

Kids are our future of the church, and investing in them is key to building a bright world for future generations. Setting a strong foundation of worship in kids from a young age not only sets them on the right path but also encourages them to be more productive members of society and share their gifts with the world. Kids' Church is offered to not only help kids learn the importance of Jesus Christ but to help them with their spiritual development and life-long relationship with Jesus. Kids' Church provides a kid-friendly message, object lesson, and/or activity that ties directly to the message being shared in our main worship service. This allows the kids to learn at their own pace and with a message that speaks directly to them.

While this is an important part to our children's ministry, there are times in which it is important for the kids to stay with their families in the sanctuary. For this reason, Kids' Church is not offered on Communion Sundays or special Sundays such as Easter and Christmas. Kids' Church is also only offered periodically throughout the summer.

Even though we can be overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety for this next generation coming behind us, I believe the struggles of 2024 aren’t actually all that different than they always have been. There’s nothing new under the sun, after all. And there has always been a reason to celebrate in the midst of it all.

People who follow Jesus will always have a reason to celebrate.

And VBS is, indeed, a celebration! It’s an annual opportunity to gather with a captive audience of young ones, pointing them toward the God who loves them and sent His Son to have a relationship with them.

You always show me the path that leads to life. You will fill me with joy when I am with you.  Acts 2:28 NIrV

Is there anything better than playing water games on a hot summer day?!

All kids are invited for an afternoon of fun in the sun right here at church. But come ready to get wet because this party is all about water games! From water balloons, to super soakers, to water racing games, no one will leave without getting wet!

This is a day that is just about fun and friendship. Bring clothes that can get wet along with a towel, and we'll provide the rest!

Whether you decide to come alone or invite some friends; this is a party you do not want to miss! Please be sure to complete the form linked below so we can plan for who is coming and be made aware of any allergies or other special needs.

"Be silly. Be honest. Be kind." ~Emerson

We have fun all summer long keeping our kids engaged and loving God and church life! But just because summer is nearing its end, doesn't mean we're going to stop the fun. No way! Join us for our last party of the summer as we celebrate the long, happy days of sunshine with ice cream, smores, and a great movie. Okay, we'll throw in popcorn too!

So, gather your family and your friends and head over over to CUMC Friday, August 9 at 6:30 p.m. for a night filled with laughter, joy, and love.

Please hit the button below and let us know if you'll be joining us.