 Dear River Families,
September is a busy season with school, events, and family commitments—but it’s also a time for fresh beginnings, new rhythms, and growth for our children, families, and community— So welcome back to a new year at the River! Last Sunday we kicked off our new RiverKids series, “Known, Loved, and Becoming,” by reading Psalm 139:13–18 and wondering together about what is true, beautiful, and mysterious in these verses: You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and put me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderful and complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed, as I was put together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They are countless! I can’t even count them; there are more of them than the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me! Together we explored how God created us: What are the wonderful things about us? What are the complex things about you? and about me? As this new season unfolds, we’ll continue sharing stories and activities that affirm each child’s identity in God, helping them feel rooted in belonging while growing in curiosity, joy, hope, and meaning on their journey with God. So we’d love for you to stay connected by joining us regularly and taking part in the variety events that we will be hosting this season:
With warmth and excitement, Amelia Cunard (she/her) | RiverKids Director
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 Dear River Families,
I hope this finds you all well and soaking in the signs of spring all around us! Over the past several weeks, our RiverKids have been diving into some beautiful, honest, and even surprising conversations during the Lenten season. Through stories, parables, and reflection times, we explored big feelings like sadness, hope, anger, and compassion — and how God meets us in all of them. One memorable moment was when we talked about the idea of forgiveness, which opened up a rich and deep discussion about guilt and how grace and love can help: "Guilt feels weird, it consumes my brain." "Forgiveness is easier because it's your choice . . . but saying sorry is like admitting you did it." "But when I say sorry . . . I am yellow and sunshine again." It was something truly powerful to hear from these young voices. So thank you for continuing to show up for your kids and this community. It’s a joy to learn and grow alongside them. As we are looking ahead, here are a few helpful reminders and exciting updates about upcoming events:
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please email me or catch me on a Sunday. I would love to connect with you! With gratitude and springtime joy, Amelia Cunard (she/her) | RiverKids Director Dear River Families,
One of the biggest seasons in the church Calendar is here! This Sunday, March 9 is the first Sunday of Lent or "40 Days of Faith," as we call it at the River. It is the time when we, as a church, press into our spiritual lives and prepare for a big celebration on “Resurrection Sunday” which falls on April 20 this year. This year’s RiverKids theme for the season is “Exploring the Heart of Lent: Stories of Love, Loss, and Hope." One of the trickiest things about growing up is learning how to deal with all the big, messy feelings we carry around inside of us. Emotions are part of God’s design, guiding us to a deeper understanding of ourselves and each other, while teaching empathy and helping us build healthy relationships. Creating mindful moments and rituals to sit with God and reflect on our feelings can further nurture this understanding. During "40 Days of Faith," RiverKids will explore The Heart of Lent, reflecting on emotions like sadness, fear, hope, and compassion through parables and stories. We'll discuss how loss and anger can lead to humility and gratitude, and although the story of Jesus’s death can be distressing and confusing, the joy of his resurrection can bring reconciliation and renewal. To embrace this season together with our community, here are just a few ways to engage:
Amelia Cunard | RiverKids Director  Dear River families,
As the holiday season approaches, we are filled with anticipation and gratitude. It’s a time to slow down, reflect on our blessings, and connect with loved ones. To embrace the spirit of the season, we have a variety of events and activities coming up in our church community. Here are just a few suggestions for how to make the most out of the season:
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please email me or catch me on a Sunday morning. I would love to connect with you! Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving and blessed times with your loved ones! Amelia Cunard | RiverKids Director Hello River families, As the leaves change color and the air grows crisp, we're excited to share what's happening in our church community this month. From festive celebrations to heartwarming events, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please email me at [email protected] or catch me on Sundays. I would love to connect with you! Blessings, Amelia Cunard | RiverKids Director  |
