02/02/2025
Do you ever wakeup in the morning and think about how the days begin to run together? I know that for busy families like my own, once the program year is in full swing, it can feel like one day runs into the next! As I look forward in my calendar, I can see that it is already packed full of stuff for us to do, and there is no shortage of things for us to sign up for.
I know how daunting this can all seem, and adding another thing to your calendar can feel like it will never fit. Sometimes, it is good to not try and squeeze in another thing. Other times, that activity can break up the monotony of the calendar and offer a chance to at least change things up a bit.
If your kids aren't part of the ALUCC KIDS! programs here at the church, I hope you will consider signing up or showing up for any of the events we have coming up. The youth groups for grades 2 through 5 each meet at least once per month, and these are a great way for your kids to meet new people in the church. If your kids are unsure about whether they want to come, I would encourage them to bring a friend with them so they can feel like they are taking part in the new activity with a familiar face! I guarantee they will have fun and want to return!
The Program Year Marches on....
February has brought a new thing to Avon Lake UCC as we welcome
our new Senior Minister, the Rev. Mark Pettis, to the staff here at the church. If you have not yet met Pastor Mark, I encourage you to introduce yourself the next time you are here. He will be learning a lot of new names, so give him time to learn who you are (and if you are here for worship, please wear a nametag!).
Both Pastor Mark and I will be leading Cross Training classes during the Lenten season. Cross Training is a time when the church gathers on Wednesday evening for a brief worship from 6:30-7 and then a class. Each class is different, and topics range from bible studies to book studies and beyond! I do not yet know the topics yet, but I expect that we will know them within the next week or so.
Mid High Mayhem (Youth Group for grades 4 and 5 - February 3) and Primary Pandemonium (Youth Group for kids in grades 2 and 3 - February 17)
We will be offering our Inquirers' Class on Sunday, February 23 at 4:00 PM. The casual session offers a basic introduction to the history and theology of the United Church of Christ, a conversation with ALUCC staff, and a tour of our facilities. We want to welcome you and answer all those questions you may have. This is a great way to learn about the church and to ask questions. No commitment is required, although you will be able to join as an official member if you wish.
Babysitting can be provided, please request by February 18. Please see Tim Schulz, Dir. of Membership & Media on Sunday or write him at membership@avonlakeucc.org with your questions or to RSVP.
As more events pop up in the calendar, I will add them to the events list below. Remember, the list below is not all the events of the church, but rather, just events which specifically pertain to the Children and Family Ministries of Avon Lake UCC. If you have an idea for an event, please don't hesitate to reach out!
As 2025 dawns, I want you to know that it is my hope in the beginning of the coming year to become more connected than ever with the children and families of ALUCC, including spending more time in the Sunday School rooms on Sunday morning. You may not see me in the sanctuary as often, but please know that I am still available to you should you need anything. I hope to see you at one of the many services still remaining this year.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Beau
NOVEMBER
Youth Group for Grades 4 and 5 is happening on February 3 from 6:30-8 PM in the Dinghy (Room 103B) We play games, have fun, eat snacks and more. Friends are always welcome!
Youth Group for Grades 2 and 3 is happening on February 17 from 6:30-8 PM in the Dinghy (Room 103B) We play games, have fun, eat snacks and more. Friends are always welcome!
Sound interesting? be sure to mark your calendars to find out what it is about!
We will be offering our Inquirers' Class on Sunday, February 23 at 4:00 PM. The casual session offers a basic introduction to the history and theology of the United Church of Christ, a conversation with ALUCC staff, and a tour of our facilities. We want to welcome you and answer all those questions you may have.
Babysitting can be provided, please request by February 18. Please see Tim Schulz, Dir. of Membership & Media on Sunday or write him at membership@avonlakeucc.org with your questions or to RSVP.
For years now, Common Sense Media's website has been my go-to for parenting tips and advise. It's far safer than asking internet friends on social media because they actually do their research! They give information about the things you need to be aware of as a parent in today's busy world. They also give basic rundowns of movies, TV, entertainment, apps and more so you can know what your kids may be getting into before they get too involved. They manage to do all this without a political bent that will lead you down the wrong path as well. Just good common sense for parents!
If you have questions about the Children and Family Ministry program here at Avon Lake UCC - or any of the other programs - feel free to contact the church office with the contact information below. If you would like to contact Pastor Beau directly, please use the email button below!
Office@avonlakeucc.org
440-933-3241
32801 Electric Blvd.
Avon Lake, OH 44012
We welcome all those who are seeking a deeper relationship with God, a life patterned on the ways Jesus taught and lived, and an opportunity to make a difference for good in the world.
We are an Open and Affirming Congregation of the United Church of Christ.
32801 Electric Blvd.
Avon Lake, OH 44012
440-933-3241
Office hours: 10:00 - 3:00 weekdays
Thank you for signing up for our email list! We send a Weekend Update email with events and opportunities coming up in the life of the church. On Saturday, look for our Worship Update email with information about the next day's service. Youth Ministry emails are also send out on Fridays.