Spring Forward: 40 Days of Faith and More

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. 
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• 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!
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Amelia Cunard | RiverKids Director