Kaleidoscope Kids, the children’s ministry program at First United Methodist Church of Olympia, participated in a special project called: God Is LOVE! They have received cards from all around the world and have heard stories from different people about the ways they see God’s love showing up in their community. This project has taken over a wall in the children’s ministry area of the church and God’s love pours out of every single card people have written.
The kids delight in the cards arriving in Washington State; and they love showing their grown-ups all the new cards that appear each day. This wall has been a reminder that while our world feels scary and troubling, God’s love is still alive all over the world.
These kids have been leaning into the tagline of Kaleidoscope Kids: Reflecting God’s Light in Our Ever Changing World in a variety of ways. From learning Bible stories, praying with and for each other to participating in different aspects of worship and being a light in their community and schools.
Kaleidoscope Kids began in 2023 with just two kids in attendance for weekly worship. Now, Sunday mornings average 35 kids with upwards of 80+ on the roster for events like Kids Night Out, Affinity Nights, Club345 and other outreach events.
When I reached out to The General Board of Church and Society, they jumped into action to show the kids how they are sharing God’s love on a global scale. A personal letter to the Kaleidoscope Kids was sent from Church and Society General Secretary Bishop Julius Trimble and displayed on the wall for all to see; along with stuffed friends we have called “Bible Buddies” and stained glass window coloring sheets for them to fill with their prayers.
Kids have been using their Bible Buddies to help them gain confidence in their reading of the Bible and are reminders that God’s love is all around.
These kids are reflecting God’s love in an ever changing world. How are you sharing God’s love today?
This article was written by Brittney Gilleland, leader of the children’s ministry program at First United Methodist Church of Olympia. Brittney is also a ordination candidate for Deacon.