United Church of Christ
United in Spirit and inspired by God’s grace, we welcome all, love all, and seek justice for all.
The Minnesota Conference United Church of Christ (UCC) equips a courageous Church alive with Christ’s transforming love.
Scripture Text | Luke 2:22-38
Wonderings
1
What traditions or rituals do you have in your family that makes this time of year special?
2
How is space opening up for you to connect with your broader community?
3
How is it that your family helps bring hope into the community?
Contemplative Movement
Be the Spark
Materials: Candle lighter or matches; Advent Wreath with five candles, optional: print the instructions.
Prep: Set an unlit Advent Wreath in an accessible space for children.
Watch: Ask all participants to observe closely as you light a match or ignite a lighter. Watch for the moment when the spark bursts out. Repeat, as needed/wanted! After sufficient examples, light the first Advent Wreath candle.
Ask: How do you think it feels to be that little spark?
Move: In an open area, invite kids to be a spark. Jump, shake out, jolt your body!
Explore: How does it feel to jump in new and different shapes like this? How does it feel when we have a new idea?
Creative Project
Stained Glass Windows
Create eye-catching window displays for homes or community spaces.
Materials: thin paper or vellum; colored pencils; markers; images for inspiration.
How to:
- Invite participants to gather their supplies or provide a supply in-person.
- Use your imagination or examples for inspiration, design your ‘windows’ with pencil first.
- Take your time selecting colors and making patterns; use this time for meditative invitation or connective conversation.
- Once complete – share your creations with the group. Hang in your home or church windows!
Caring for the Common Good
Take the Advent Kindness Countdown!
Small acts of kindness are a great way to spread happiness and cheer while helping your children experience the beauty of the giving season.
This fun Kindness Challenge offers the perfect opportunity to spend a few minutes each day spreading good cheer in your community with simple, thoughtful activities.. Challenge your big-hearted family to give back every day in December, or simply choose a few favorites to work into your less-busy days.
Children’s Books
The Quiltmaker’s Gift by Jeff Brumbeau
Discover the joy of giving through this fairy tale featuring a talented seamstress who makes beautiful quilts for the poor and the homeless and the king who decides he must have one. No summary can do justice to this bewitching tale about the power of hope and the gift of giving.