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River Families Blog

Easter Service & Celebrations

4/10/2025

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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:
  • Easter Sunday | April 20, 2025
    • To begin the day, children will join the main service for a special time of storytelling, singing, and the RiverKids Easter Video Presentation. Later, they’ll head to their classrooms for a joyful celebration — including fun games (Easter Escape Room) and treats!
    • Please note: Children under age 3 will remain with their parents for the entire service. Youth will join the service as well, and are welcome to sit with each other or with their families.
    • An Easter tradition that we will be continuing this year is the Flowering of the Cross. Families are invited to bring flowers in memory of a loved one. We’ll also have extra flowers available for anyone who would like to participate.

  • Earth Day Special Service | April 27, 2025
    • On 4/27, we will be hosting a special Sunday Service in honor of Earth Day. 
    • After the service, we’ll hold an Art & Craft Fair featuring handmade pieces by our RiverKids and volunteers. All proceeds will go to a local organization focused on caring for the environment and our neighbors in need. (Venmo/QR codes will be available at the event to make donating easy.)
We can’t wait to celebrate this season of hope and love with you soon!
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
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40 Days of Faith and More

3/21/2025

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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: 
  • Come on Sundays! Consistent participation will help your children connect with the season more deeply and will allow them to participate in our Easter video presentation. So I would like to invite your kids to join us each week as we journey through Lent!

  • Use the "40 Days of Faith" Guide | This year's guide includes helpful information about the upcoming "Life In All Its Fullness" sermon series and the Agape Prayer Gathering (on 3/30), as well as reflection questions and spiritual practices like The Examen and Breath Prayer.

  • Make a Prayer Bracelet | As part of this River tradition, we invite River-ites to create prayer bracelets — each bead representing someone or something we are holding in prayer throughout the season. There will be tables in the Lounge area with materials. 

  • Highlights of Upcoming Events include: 
    • Daylight saving starts this Sunday. Don't forget to change your clock 1 hour forward.
    • THIS SUNDAY after the service, River members are invited to a Members Meeting where we plan to discuss church updates together. 
      • Pizza lunch will be provided.
      • Childcare will be available with RSVP. 
    • Please check out our website for more information on LifeGroups and other gatherings. 
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! I am looking forward to walking alongside your family during this meaningful time!
 
Amelia Cunard | RiverKids Director
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thanksgiving and hope for the season

11/22/2024

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​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: 
  • Kick off the Advent season with us this Sunday, 11/24 with a special visio divina service, featuring images and reflections from artist Scott Erickson. RiverYouth will be joining the main service. RiverKids will meet as usual.
  • Attend our services on Sundays! Staying connected with the community is the best way to get into the spirit of Advent this season. 

  • Join River Friendsgiving! (Thursday, 11/28) Come gather with members of the River community for a potluck meal! This gathering will take place from 2-6pm at the church. For more information and to RSVP, please use the Connection Card.

  • Come decorate Christmas cookies in Park Slope, Brooklyn! (Saturday, 12/21 from 2-4pm) 
    River adults, youth, and kids are welcome! For more information and to RSVP, please use the Connection Card.
RiverKids/Youth will be doing a special Christmas presentation during our All-Church Christmas Service on 12/22. To help us prepare for this event, please let me know by email if your kids/youth plan on attending church on 12/8, 12/15, and 12/22. Knowing who will be around will help us to assign roles and prepare accordingly.
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
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River Family Newsletter: October Highlights

10/24/2024

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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.
  • River Fall Festival | After the Service THIS SUNDAY
| Everyone is invited to a special celebration in the church space after the service on October 27. We will have games, treats, and Fall-themed activities! Feel free to come in costume (please nothing too scary or gory)!

  • Child Dedication | At the River, we recognize parents' desire to dedicate their child to God and to invite God's blessings into their life. So, if you have been thinking about dedicating your child at the River, we have reserved Sunday, Nov 3 for the ceremony. Please let me if you are interested. Feel free to invite your family and friends for this special occasion. 

  • Other Upcoming Events include: 
    Mohonk Preserve Hiking Trip | Saturday, 10/26 
    Compassionate Time Management Workshop with Anne Boccato | Saturday, 11/02 
    LifeGroups and Gatherings
    Please check out our website for more information. 
Making Our Space Feel Like Home |  We'd love to have your input on how to make our new space feel even more welcoming! Share your ideas on the Connection Card provided in the program and drop it in the Offering Box (or use our digital Connection Card.)
 
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
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Spring Forward: 40 Days of Faith and More

3/8/2024

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Dear River Families,
We hope this newsletter finds you well and excited for the arrival of spring! As we transition into March, we have some exciting updates and events to share with you. 
​
  • RiverKids 40 Days of Faith | Our theme for this season is "God With Us." During this season we are exploring the stories of Jesus and reflecting on questions such as: What does it mean to be with someone? Does it mean we can see or touch them? Does it mean feeling close to them, communicating with them, or engaging in activities together? How does being with God make a difference in our lives? Here is a summary of what we have covered so far (pictures below): 

    On the first Sunday of Lent (2/18), we shared stories about the "storms" in our lives, about times when we felt alone or scared. Knowing that Jesus is in our "boat" helps us remember, that we are never really alone in our journey and that God is always near. We experimented with salad spinners and made spin art. 

    On the second Sunday of Lent (2/25), we talked about how special children are to God. The world may exclude or dismiss us, but God sees us as beloved. We imagined how God looked at us and drew our self-portraits! 

    On the third Sunday of Lent (3/3), we heard about the story of Jesus in the Wilderness. When we spend time with our friends, we learn a lot about them and we know the sounds of their voices. When we take time to quiet ourselves from all the distracting and unkind noises, we too may hear God's voice and receive guidance. On this day, we did a quiet activity with strings.

    This Sunday, we will hear the story of Jesus, Mary, and Martha. Being with us is why Jesus came. Wonderful things happen when we connect with God and other people, so bring your children along this Sunday!


  • Lifegroups | Share your "40 Days of Faith" Journey with fellow River-ites. LifeGroups are a great place to connect with others in small and casual settings. Check out our website for more information. 

  • Prayer for Agape Gathering | After the service THIS SUNDAY! Don't forget Daylight Saving Time!)
    There will be an optional time of prayer for anyone who wishes to experience more of God’s Agape (unconditional love). To RSVP and/or request childcare, please email Alison at [email protected].


  • Special Times for Easter Services | March, 31 @ 10:00 am & 11:30 am
    This year we will have two Easter Sunday services. RiverKids programming will only be offered during the earlier 10:00 am service, so families with young children should plan to come at that time. Members of RiverYouth (5th grade and older) are invited to join the adults in either of the main services.


  • RiverKids Art Show | March, 31 After first service (Basement)
    On Easter, join us after the first service to check out our children's artwork made throughout "40 Days of Faith."

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. Have a wonderful start to spring!
​
Amelia Cunard | RiverKids Director
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  • Home
  • About
    • What We’re About
    • LGBTQ+ Affirmation
    • Who's Who
    • Our Partners
  • Sundays
    • What to Expect
    • Kids, Youth, & Families
    • Listen to a Sermon
    • Sunday Service Music
  • Connect
    • Get Plugged In
    • Upcoming Events
    • Groups & Gatherings
    • Get In Touch With Us
    • Join a Sunday Team
  • OUR BLOGS
    • The River Blog
    • Families Blog
    • Resource of the Week
  • "40 Days of Faith" Guide
  • Give