tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77871419790618699942024-03-13T02:04:35.273-07:00Episcopal KidsWelcome to this blog for Episcopal families who seek to support, encourage and nurture their children's spiritual growth and knowledge.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-60449267993468262502012-03-30T12:23:00.001-07:002012-03-30T12:23:41.793-07:00Palm Sunday ResourcesParents, can you believe it's already almost Palm Sunday? I certainly can't. Here are a few of the things that our family intends to do this week in order to prepare our hearts and minds for the beginning of Holy Week.<br />
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<a href="http://ministry-to-children.com/palm-sunday-lesson/">Palm Sunday lesson for preschool</a><br />
<a href="http://www.dltk-bible.com/crafts/">Palm Sunday crafts and coloring pages</a> <br />
<a href="http://www.littletaka.com/2010/03/22/kids-activity-sheets-palm-sunday-the-triumphal-entry/">Huge listing of Palm Sunday resources</a> including word searches, mazes, coloring pages, crosswords, and group activities.<br />
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Blessings!<br />
EAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-5071633430071484152012-02-24T18:10:00.000-08:002012-02-24T18:10:00.282-08:00Lent Game for younger children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What a wonderful resource for families with younger children- check out <a href="http://inlieuofpreschool.blogspot.com/2012/02/our-preschool-plan-for-lent.html">this Lent game</a>, from "<a href="http://inlieuofpreschool.blogspot.com/">In Lieu of Preschool</a>"!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-62202227559721514152012-02-23T17:18:00.000-08:002012-02-23T17:18:00.565-08:00Holy Experience: a Beautiful Lent Resource<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/wp-content/uploads/p3/images/masthead_image1_1287547762.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="50" src="http://www.aholyexperience.com/wp-content/uploads/p3/images/masthead_image1_1287547762.png" width="320" /></a></div>
I subscribe to the blog, <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/">A Holy Experience,</a> written by Ann Voskamp. I am continually moved and challenged by her humble understanding of her God, and life here on Earth. Today, she shared an intriguing and <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2012/02/what-lent-really-means-free-easter-devotional-book-to-make-a-jesus-easter-tree/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+HolyExperience+%28Holy+Experience%29">deeply moving post about what Lent means to her</a>, and I was so touched that I felt I should share it. Understand, Ann is not Episcopalian. At the same time, I feel that we can embrace our similarities and discount our canonical differences in some circumstances.<br />
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I hope her words bless you as they have me!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-46709928095458339212012-02-21T15:44:00.000-08:002012-02-21T15:45:10.730-08:00A Place At The Table<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41Kst5FMFmL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41Kst5FMFmL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" /></a></div>
The Episcopal Church seems to be moving toward making Lent more than just a time of self-sacrifice in solidarity with Christ. Rather, I see a move toward enhancing our lives- living them more completely, the way God intended. At our church specifically, we are working on physical, emotional, and spiritual health. This involves a variety of things, including physical exercise and eating healthier foods, making time for prayer each day, and giving to others.<br />
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I stumbled upon this book recently and I will be reading it during Lent. The author is a Christian who chooses to eat like most of the world does, rather than how Americans tend to do. I'm particularly excited because it chronicles his Lent journey (while I'm doing mine!) and explores our physical health as well as the physical/emotional condition of others. It seems to fit into my own journey over the next 40 days, and I share it here because I suspect it might just coincide with yours as well.<br />
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Enjoy!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-65258201870786973482012-02-14T07:43:00.000-08:002012-02-14T07:43:19.329-08:00Valentine's Day How are you celebrating Valentine's Day?<br />
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We are doing lots of fun things in our house, including making Valentines to give to friends and family, eating pink heart-shaped pancakes for breakfast, and playing a few Valentine's Day games.<br />
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This is pretty standard behavior, I think, but I want to be sure that we talk about God's love on this special day as well as romantic love. (I think kids get <i>plenty</i> of exposure to the latter in our society.) So, what to do?<br />
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We were off to a great start because in church last Sunday the children all made valentine cards which we will be delivering (as a church) to a local nursing home. We are all excited to be spreading God's love in this way, and the residents are excited to see the kids and their creations!<br />
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In our family we are also prepared to be "sneaky" valentines this year, who will be dropping off anonymous messages of love and friendship to our neighbors. (So if you live near us and read this blog, don't spoil the surprise!)<br />
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Still thinking about what your family will be up to today? <br />
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Check out these links for some more fun Valentine's Day ideas for kids:<br />
<a href="http://www.dltk-kids.com/articles/valentine.htm">Kid-friendly story of St. Valentine and several angel craft ideas</a><br />
<a href="http://www.any-occasion-free-christian-game.com/christian-valentine-game.html">Valentine game and activity ideas</a><br />
<a href="http://www.christianstories.com/holidays/valentines-day-stories-poems-ideas.shtml">Valentine's Day stories, poems, and recipes</a><br />
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I asked a few kids last week during Children's Chapel about the roots of Valentine's Day- "where did it come from, and why do we celebrate it?" I wanted to know. A few kids had a general idea (maybe it had something to do with God??), but many weren't so sure how this wonderful holiday originated. That's not surprising since History doesn't give us a very clear answer, but I hoped that children would recognize the story of Father Valentine, a early Christian priest who helped young couples marry. Check out this quick video from the History Channel to buff up your own recollection of V-day's origins, both pagan and Christian:<br />
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(Note: it's a 4 minute video- please watch it first without your children because you may find that it contains ideas which are a bit "too old" for very young children)<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-83868226146353561242012-01-27T08:37:00.000-08:002012-01-27T08:37:41.672-08:00Abundant Life and Forgiveness Idea<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is a link to a wonderful blog authored by a Christian family hoping to raise kids who love God. Because our youth group is focusing on lessons about forgiveness and living an abundant life this week, I thought I would share their post about <a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/2011/06/100-ways-for-your-family-to-make-a-difference/">ways for your family to make a difference</a>.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-53114151541969248072012-01-27T08:25:00.000-08:002012-01-27T08:37:41.665-08:00Extension Activities for the story of Abraham<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.biblestoryprintables.com/images/Abraham32.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.biblestoryprintables.com/images/Abraham32.gif" /></a></div>
Follow <a href="http://www.bibleforchildren.org/languages/english/stories.php">this link</a>
for a free downloadable PowerPoint presentation on the story of Abraham, and click on the CB link for corresponding coloring book
pages.<br />
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A Promise for Abraham <a href="http://www.biblestoryprintables.com/Pages/BibleMinibook/Abraham.html">mini-book craft</a>. <br />
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Abraham's story Bible <a href="http://www.biblestoryprintables.com/Pages/BibleTimeline/Abraham.html">Timeline printables.</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.biblestoryprintables.com/Pages/StoryBoard/Abraham.html">Abraham storyboard set for kids.</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.biblestoryprintables.com/BibleColoringAbraham.html">Abraham coloring pages which correspond to the included story.</a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-32412935432860144782012-01-27T08:13:00.000-08:002012-01-27T08:13:37.077-08:00Resources for the Temple Lesson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Follow <a href="http://www.bibleforchildren.org/languages/english/stories.php">this link</a> for a free downloadable PowerPoint presentation on the story of David and Solomon, and click on the CB link for corresponding coloring book pages. <br />
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David brings the Ark to Jerusalem <a href="http://www.sundayschoolsources.com/lessons/OT/unitedkingdom/Uzzah_text.htm">story</a> and <a href="http://www.sundayschoolsources.com/lessons/OT/unitedkingdom/DavidandArk.htm">review and craft ideas</a> (like making a game board or leading a parade into Jerusalem).<br />
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Can you ask children to make their own special palace like David (a fort with blankets, for example), or even a beautiful Temple for the Ark (maybe using couch cushions)?<br />
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Can your child draw a picture of what the city of Jerusalem must have looked like when David recaptured it? Try cutting out some happy, smiling faces from magazines to glue onto the people in the picture- it must have been a very happy day, after all!<br />
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<a href="http://www.3dtabernacle.com/images/instructions/DSC02068.JPG">Photo Credit </a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-1397034736774479962012-01-27T07:26:00.000-08:002012-01-27T07:27:10.749-08:00My Place with Jesus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is a free, online game which promotes knowledge of Jesus and is really, really fun to use! My children have loved it! It's intended for younger children- think early elementary most likely, and is best used with a parent to support and answer questions.<br />
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Check out My Place with Jesus <a href="http://www.myplacewithjesus.com/">here</a>!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-87763495780072577692012-01-23T05:47:00.000-08:002012-01-23T05:48:02.717-08:00The Promised Land Lunch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/268949408966521034_RY4sRqzr_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/268949408966521034_RY4sRqzr_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This week some of our youngest kids studied the Promised Land in Sunday School, and they learned about how important it was for God's people to leave the desert and establish permanent homes in an area with fertile land. Kids discussed God's promise to provide a home for the faithful, so wouldn't this be a fun lunch to serve this week as a reminder of God's promise to His people?<br />
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The blog which originally posted this lunch idea is in Spanish, but you can check it out <a href="http://casadefirulas.com.br/page/4/">here</a>. <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-16583632510702988672012-01-22T18:14:00.000-08:002012-01-22T18:14:13.564-08:00Joseph Activities<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.makingfriends.com/images/joseph.GIF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.makingfriends.com/images/joseph.GIF" width="230" /></a></div>
Here are a few wonderful activities to do at home with your children during our week of study on Joseph.<br /><br />
<a href="http://www.toddler-activities-at-home.com/joseph-crafts.html" target="_blank">www.toddler-activities-at-home.com/joseph-crafts.html </a><br />
(Several Joseph crafts including a coat mosaic, Joseph in prison - make a
card chain, Joseph interprets the Baker's dream - make some bread,
Joseph <a class="itxtrst itxtrsta itxthook" href="http://www.squidoo.com/sunday-school-crafts-OT#" id="itxthook1" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: 0.075em solid darkgreen; color: darkgreen; font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; padding-bottom: 1px; text-decoration: underline;"><span class="itxtrst itxtrstspan itxthookspan" id="itxthook1w0" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; color: darkgreen; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">stores</span></a> up grain - make a pyramid of wheat or barley)<br />
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<a href="http://ministry-to-children.com/sunday-school-craft-josephs-coat-of-many-colors/" target="_blank">ministry-to-children.com/sunday-school-craft-josephs-coat-of-many-colors/</a><br />
(Make a coat of many colors using tissue paper - contains a video)<br />
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<a href="http://www.makingfriends.com/joseph.htm" target="_blank">www.makingfriends.com/joseph.htm </a><br />
(Joseph's coat of many colors paper doll)<br />
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<a href="http://www.gospelhall.org/downloads/children-bible-activities-crafts--printable-games/sunday-school-lesson-activity-123-josephs-dreams/dowmload.html" target="_blank">www.gospelhall.org/downloads/children-bible-activities-crafts--printable-games/sunday-school-lesson-activity-123-josephs-dreams/dowmload.html</a><br />
(Make a story wheel showing Joseph's dreams)<br />
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<a href="http://daniellesplace.com/html/egyptian_crafts.html" target="_blank">daniellesplace.com/html/egyptian_crafts.html</a><br />
(Make some Egyptian crafts like Joseph may have seen or worn in Egypt
including a headband, a bracelet, a collar (wesekh), a falcon amulet)<br />
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<a href="http://www.mssscrafts.com/crafts/chariot/index.htm" target="_blank">www.mssscrafts.com/crafts/chariot/index.htm</a><br />
(Make an Egyptian chariot out of a small milk carton or disposable cup and printable horse templates) <br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-82654266029982664822012-01-22T18:10:00.000-08:002012-01-22T18:12:11.509-08:00Jacob's Ladder CookiesAt our church last week and this week, one of our classes has been talking about Jacob. Who is this character in the Bible and what did he do? Check out <a href="http://www.christianityoasis.com/dailybread/Genesis/JacobAndEsau.htm">this link</a> to read about the story of Jacob and Esau.<br />
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<a href="http://www.churchhousecollection.com/resources/Jacob%27s%20Ladder%20Cookie%20Bar%20Snack%20For%20Kids.JPG.opt375x281o0,0s375x281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://www.churchhousecollection.com/resources/Jacob%27s%20Ladder%20Cookie%20Bar%20Snack%20For%20Kids.JPG.opt375x281o0,0s375x281.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Check out this <a href="http://www.churchhousecollection.com/jacobs-ladder-cookie-bar-recipe.php">Jacob's Ladder cookie recipe</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-1353567353404239992012-01-22T18:09:00.000-08:002012-01-22T18:10:09.167-08:00Jacob and Esau Crafts and Extension ActivitiesHere are a few wonderful Jacob- related extension activities to share and do with your children. I hope they bless your family as they have mine!<br />
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<a href="http://www.preschools4all.com/image-files/jacob-esau-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="http://www.preschools4all.com/image-files/jacob-esau-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.preschools4all.com/bible-school-crafts.html" target="_blank">www.preschools4all.com/bible-school-crafts.html </a><br />
(Painting craft of the twins, Jacob and Esau)<br />
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<a href="http://www.gospelhall.org/downloads/children-bible-activities-crafts--printable-games/sunday-school-lesson-activity-120-jacob-and-esau--the-blessing-stolen-pdf/dowmload.html" target="_blank">www.gospelhall.org/downloads/children-bible-activities-crafts--printable-games/sunday-school-lesson-activity-120-jacob-and-esau--the-blessing-stolen-pdf/dowmload.html</a><br />
(A model of the tent where Jacob steals Esau's blessing )<br />
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<a href="http://www.dltk-bible.com/crafts/mbowl.htm" target="_blank">www.dltk-bible.com/crafts/mbowl.htm</a><br />
(Make Jacob's bowl of stew)<br />
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<a href="http://biblestoryhour.blogspot.com/2009/04/unit-1-lesson-5-jacob-and-esau.html" target="_blank">biblestoryhour.blogspot.com/2009/04/unit-1-lesson-5-jacob-and-esau.html</a><br />
(Scroll down for 2 crafts - another bowl and a Jacob and Esau collage)<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-66164477256633891212012-01-05T18:31:00.000-08:002012-01-05T18:31:00.746-08:00Prayer Cards for Your Children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoRqlmW8H9izef9jFgeP_37zfazE_CW7M20NRcbLUZDDlVuXmbMYKtVwTJpprOYtU5g-vu9dtyKoJZxnSnnXbywiI7OHIZaMHqaVWtcunrcd2tkCjVQtMscEqPinkzD4DqhWMDDVV2PtTD/s1600/7+days+of+prayer+cards+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoRqlmW8H9izef9jFgeP_37zfazE_CW7M20NRcbLUZDDlVuXmbMYKtVwTJpprOYtU5g-vu9dtyKoJZxnSnnXbywiI7OHIZaMHqaVWtcunrcd2tkCjVQtMscEqPinkzD4DqhWMDDVV2PtTD/s320/7+days+of+prayer+cards+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B2HA_yMdi9eaZjQ1MDM0M2EtNWVmNy00ZWEwLTkxMDAtNTJjM2YyZjU2MTc2&hl=en_US&pli=1">This link</a> provides seven printable cards to leave around the house to help us parents remind ourselves to pray for our children as they grow and mature in the world. It's so easy to remember to pray for those who are ill, who are less fortunate, who need specific things... but sometimes we overlook praying for those who are in our lives all the time, day in and day out.<br />
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Print any (or all) cards which you think might prove helpful to you in remembering to ask for God's help as you raise your children, and as you interact with them each day. <br />
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Thanks, <a href="http://www.whenyourise.com/2012/01/teaching-your-child-to-pray-seven.html">When You Rise</a>!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-28174130564645330962012-01-05T18:15:00.000-08:002012-01-05T18:16:14.581-08:00Natural Star CraftI must admit, this star craft starts out with a really wholesome, natural feel... and then kids spray adhesive on and dump glitter onto their product. So while it isn't perhaps the most salubrious of endeavors, it's still a simple, fun craft for kids to keep them thinking about the star which is leading the magi to Jesus.<br />
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You will need:<br />
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Sticks (we collected ours from the backyard, but craft sticks would also work)<br />
Glue or spray adhesive<br />
Twine or yarn to tie the sticks together<br />
Glitter (lots, and lots of it!)<br />
Raffia to display your finished product<br />
Some newspaper or scrap paper to protect your craft surface <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MLjXHlHeA3A/TwZWXC6-wVI/AAAAAAAAAS8/JdK-xUrLDp4/s1600/IMG_5972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MLjXHlHeA3A/TwZWXC6-wVI/AAAAAAAAAS8/JdK-xUrLDp4/s320/IMG_5972.jpg" width="240" /></a>Assemble your supplies and break your sticks to desired length.<br /> <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sE4U_BU6yZo/TwZWOqK6LgI/AAAAAAAAASY/yL4eYzoR-BA/s1600/IMG_5975.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sE4U_BU6yZo/TwZWOqK6LgI/AAAAAAAAASY/yL4eYzoR-BA/s320/IMG_5975.jpg" width="320" /> </a>Assemble a simple star shape with the sticks and wrap the twine around and between sticks until the desired design is reasonably secure.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hPeyhk0X0pM/TwZWdFUwepI/AAAAAAAAATU/H6vGfx5GXNw/s1600/IMG_5978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hPeyhk0X0pM/TwZWdFUwepI/AAAAAAAAATU/H6vGfx5GXNw/s320/IMG_5978.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D_jE7hcr2ak/TwZWgOekG2I/AAAAAAAAATg/6UuzyYqZuDQ/s1600/IMG_5979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;">Use a bit of spray adhesive or other glue to coat the sticks. Sprinkle glitter all over the surface of the sticks and twine. </span><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D_jE7hcr2ak/TwZWgOekG2I/AAAAAAAAATg/6UuzyYqZuDQ/s320/IMG_5979.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Put these in a safe place to dry. If you use spray adhesive they dry relatively quickly, but conventional glue takes much longer.<br />
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Of course it was too dark to take photos of our finished products by the time we finished, but we strung a bit of raffia around the stars and hung them in our living room windows above our nativity to remind us of where the magi are headed!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-36921050548486469982012-01-04T18:16:00.000-08:002012-01-04T18:17:28.160-08:00At Home With God curriculum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-38174537758215_2191_118496919" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-38174537758215_2191_118496919" width="220" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.paracletepress.com/at-home-with-god-daily-practices-for-growing-families-in-faith.html">Here's the link</a> to a great resource for busy Christian families who wish to incorporate God's word into their daily lives. This approach is simple, straightforward and designed for today's working parents to share with them God's love and guidance without a lot of in-depth activities and planning.<br />
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Check it out <a href="http://www.paracletepress.com/at-home-with-god-daily-practices-for-growing-families-in-faith.html">here</a>. <br />
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Blessings to your families!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-49768635062242604822012-01-04T17:49:00.000-08:002012-01-04T17:50:08.455-08:00King James Bible National Geographic Article<a href="http://www.nationalgeographic.com/">National Geographic Magazine</a> is running an article in the December 2011 edition, in newstands now, on the origin of the King James Bible. It's an excellent, informative, and insightful look at the implications our version of the Bible has had on the world. Better yet, it's an accurate look at how our Bible came to be what it is today. <br />
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Unfortunately, the article isn't yet available online. For the online picture gallery, click <a href="http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2011/12/king-james-bible/richardson-photography">here</a>, or check it out in print version if you get the chance!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-81917142389759407372012-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:002012-01-01T00:00:07.414-08:00Godly Play Epiphany Lesson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/5M0onGDI5Nk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Since we won't be having Sunday School for two more weeks, here is the video for all of the Godly Play lessons which students may have participated in. There are six stories in this video, and children at our church have done the first five. Feel free to forward through the first five videos to get right to Epiphany, or watch them all for a good review!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-84333660472498501012011-12-30T06:21:00.000-08:002011-12-30T08:07:39.559-08:00A Star to BeholdYesterday we decided to make some stars of our own to decorate our home, and to help the Magi find their way to Jesus.<br />
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This technique is called corn syrup painting- it produces a standard picture, but the paint looks glossy when dry.<br />
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<b>You will need: </b><br />
Paper<br />
Black crayon<br />
Corn syrup<br />
Food coloring<br />
Paint brushes<br />
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The recipe is simple: add a little corn syrup to several drops of food coloring to a small dish. More food coloring makes a darker color, less makes lighter. You can do a lot of neat things by swirling colors together as well since they talk a while to combine completely. Regular paint brushes work well for this project, but you may need to soak them in some water before they come completely clean again.<br />
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Take a black crayon and draw your picture on paper. Glossy paper looks extra neat, but regular paper works well too. Remember to make your drawings "coloring book style," because you'll be painting inside the lines.<br />
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Then, use the corn syrup paint to color your drawing in! Use a lot of paint for the best effect.<br />
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In honor of Epiphany, we drew a bright star in the night sky, with wise men at the bottom. Be creative- yours may be different.<br />
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Some of us didn't get the memo about Christmas being over :), so a few Christmas trees were done as well. I included this picture so that you can see the gloss of the paint. So fun!<br />
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This is my two-year old's finished product. Use your imagination here, folks: yellow is the star, dark blue is the night sky, and red in the corner are the Magi.<br />
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Leave them to dry for a long, long, time. Where we used the most paint it took a solid 24 hours, so put your masterpieces somewhere they won't be bothered for a day or so.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-9023809143318990312011-12-30T06:18:00.000-08:002011-12-30T06:22:07.409-08:00Epiphany is coming!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Epiphany means different things to different people (after all, we are Episcopalians!), but for the most part we in the Anglican tradition celebrate it on January 6th and we commemorate the magi arriving in Bethlehem to see- and recognize- the newborn King.<br />
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So, how can we celebrate this special event in our homes? I've listed a few ideas below, and included a couple of links for you to check out. There's sure to be something that will fit your family's needs.<br />
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*Try baking a coin or small (heat safe) item into a cake. Eat the cake (carefully!) as a family and whoever finds the coin in his or her slice gets to be king/queen for the night. You can call it the Kings Cake.<br />
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*Since some denominations celebrate epiphany with the exchange of gifts, you might have a gift "unwrapping" party. Wrap a gift several times with paper, and sit in a circle with your family. Play music, and stop it at intervals just like you would if you were playing musical chairs. When the music stops, the family member who is holding the gift gets to unwrap one layer. Whoever unwraps the last layer gets to keep the present.<br />
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*This idea was one to be done in church, but I think it could be adapted for home use as well. Each family member gets a ribbon or bow, symbolic of his or her gift to God. Take a few minutes to think together about the gifts that you have given God over the last year, or the gifts that you intend to give Him in the New Year. Put the ribbons up somewhere in your home as a reminder of your pledge.<br />
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*In order to commemorate Christ's "manifestation to all nations," have an ethnic dinner week! Eat a dish from a different area of the world each night this week as a reminder of Christ's importance worldwide.<br />
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(Preceding ideas adapted from <a href="http://anglicansonline.org/special/Epiphany/epiphany.html">Anglicans Online</a>. Visit the link for more ideas!)<br />
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*Go through the Christmas cards you were sent this year and pick out ones with pictures of the magi. Cut them out and decoupage them onto a serving tray your family will use for years to come. You can even serve your Kings Cake on it!<br />
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*Reuse some of the Christmas wrap kicking around the house- make a special treasure box just like the magi might have brought to Jesus. Reuse a gift box and glue or decoupage wrapping paper, tin foil, stickers or other embellishments to make the box "fit for a king." <br />
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Check out <a href="http://www.ehow.com/list_6368194_children_s-arts-crafts-epiphany.html">this link</a> for some more kid-friendly craft ideas. I'll be doing a few of these over the next week and will post the results.<br />
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<i>What are some ways that your family celebrates Epiphany? </i><br />
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQuZiM9DsfqW9JWygyxe9DQ40jT2VkjTvQmstZJ-QbPvs9feJnO">Photo Credit</a><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-14097398736823325742011-12-27T05:56:00.000-08:002011-12-27T05:56:44.673-08:00Top 10 reasons to be an Episcopalian<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Did you know that Robin Williams (the comedian) is an Episcopalian? I didn't until I read his top ten reasons why our faith is so great. I agree with each and every reason he gives... and it brought such a smile to my face that I had to share this with you.<br />
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Try sharing this with your older children- do they understand each of the references? If not, what a great, light-hearted conversation starter. If so, then have a good laugh together! <br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif;">10. No snake handling.
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9. You can believe in dinosaurs.
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8. Male and female God created them; male and female we ordain them.
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7. You don't have to check your brains at the door.
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6. Pew aerobics.
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5. Church year is color-coded.
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4. Free wine on Sunday.
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3. All of the pageantry - none of the guilt.
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2. You don't have to know how to swim to get baptized. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif;">
<i>And the Number One reason to be an Episcopalian: </i>
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1. No matter what you believe, there's bound to be at least one other Episcopalian who agrees with you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Episcopal pride, folks! (Do we need a cheer for ourselves? Hummm...) </span></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-64379828004400862592011-12-26T17:33:00.000-08:002011-12-26T17:33:34.466-08:00Have you taken down your Christmas decorations yet?I admit it, I have. Taken down my Christmas decorations, I mean.<br />
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I don't think I've ever done it so quickly, but this year the advent wreath was made so early, and the tree fell down so many times prior to Christmas... well, it felt like we were hanging on by a thread at the end, so I must admit that it was a bit of a relief to get all of the dying greenery out of my house.<br />
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That isn't to suggest that I want to dispense with thoughts of Christmas- quite the opposite, in fact. I want to linger, to remember, to cherish these warm memories of family, generosity, peace, prayer, tranquility and belonging for the rest of my days. There is something magical that happens at Christmas- beyond the presents and the day off from work- something so silent and so powerful that we can't quite describe it. Something- or someone perhaps?- comes into our hearts to gently draw us to our knees in awe of one another, our world, of creation, of our God...<br />
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So here's a glimpse of our family's memories. I am keeping out our nativity because of course the wise men haven't yet arrived to see our newborn king. For the next week they will journey closer and closer, even as Christmas becomes farther and farther from us, to continue the miracle which was begun yesterday. In our family we will continue to read a story and say a prayer by candlelight each night to remind us of the great miracle that happened so many, many years ago...<br />
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...and to keep the memories of Christmas, and all of the miracles that happen each year on that day, close to our hearts for just a little bit longer.<br />
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Merry Christmas to you all.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-22814656114512381962011-12-21T14:06:00.000-08:002011-12-21T14:07:39.276-08:00'Twas the Night of Jesus' Birth Story and MoreTony at <a href="http://ministry-to-children.com/">Ministry-To-Children</a> has generously shared a few free resources that families may find helpful, or at least fun, this Christmas.<br />
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<a href="http://cdn.www.ministry-to-children.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/the-night-of-jesus-birth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.www.ministry-to-children.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/the-night-of-jesus-birth.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here he has re-written 'Twas the Night Before Christmas to be <a href="http://ministry-to-children.com/christmas-story-poem/">'Twas the Night of Jesus' birth</a>. It's a free download and might be a fun read for the family on Christmas Eve! <br />
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Here he has posted a <a href="http://ministry-to-children.com/christmas-coloring-book-peace/">"Jesus brings peace" coloring page</a>.<br />
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Note: the King James translation of Isaiah 9:6-7 is as follows:<br />
<sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-17836">6</sup>For unto us a child is
born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his
shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty
God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. <br />
<sup class="versenum" id="en-KJV-17837">7</sup>Of
the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon
the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish
it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The
zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.<br />
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Below, he has provided some <a href="http://ministry-to-children.com/angels-and-shepherds-coloring/">Angels and Shepherds coloring pages</a>, also for free! <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-91512410669330867722011-12-21T13:40:00.000-08:002011-12-21T13:40:29.941-08:00Thank You Card Templates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://ministry-to-children.com/">Ministry-To-Children</a> has posted a <a href="http://ministry-to-children.com/christmas-thank-you-cards/">free set of great thank you card templates</a> for kids to use this Christmas.<br />
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I printed these out to use with our children because they are cute and small- not too overwhelming for younger kids, but still a wonderful way to reinforce the concept of gratitude! <br />
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Happy card-writing!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7787141979061869994.post-11411248183376824222011-12-20T19:51:00.000-08:002011-12-20T19:52:11.289-08:00The Joys of the Season?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is a wonderful time of year. It really is. We are blessed to spend time with family and friends, to live out our traditions, to pay forward a bit of joy in our communities and watch smiles spread across the faces of strangers. There is nothing better than getting into the Christmas spirit, is there?<br />
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On the other hand, there are the hardships at this time of year. <i>How many</i> <i>cookies do I have to bake</i>? <i>The Christmas lights aren't working? Another Christmas party? How much are these presents going to cost? How far do we have to drive to visit the family?</i> The list goes on, doesn't it? It can be hard to remember the feeling of joy that we, as Christians, are supposed to feel at the pending birth of Christ. It can be very hard to remember how blessed we are that God sent Jesus to us, and that His coming was to be the end of our sorrows and strife. It doesn't feel like that when Junior has a cookie swap tomorrow at his Boy Scout troop which he didn't mention until <i>right now.</i>..<br />
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But we owe it to ourselves, our families, and most of all our God to remain joyful (or at least hopeful until those cookies are done). <i>We are doing important work</i> as we go through even the more stressful of the holiday traditions. What we are doing matters on a larger scale than the success of one or two cookie swaps, holiday parties, or gift wrapping marathons. We are celebrating our Savior's birth, after all, and what could be more cause for celebration than that?<br />
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Still...feel free to take it down a notch. Really! We are teaching our children how to celebrate Christ's birth, and they will emulate what we teach them. So, remember that while God initiated celebrations to show Him favor (check out Leviticus if you don't believe me), He never said that we should kill ourselves to do it. What God asks of us is to show Him favor, to worship Him beyond all others, and to show one another love in His name. If that means baking cookies to you, then do it. If that means going to a neighbor's Christmas party, do it. If that means traveling, crafting, caroling... then do it. <i>He is worth it, and so are the little ones in our lives whom we are teaching to love and respect Him. </i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15406377579091534104noreply@blogger.com0