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 2:39-52
Boy Jesus in the Temple
Three Wonderings
1
How would worship feel if everyone, even kids, asked questions?
2
Where are my holy spaces, where I feel I can be my whole self?
3
What are some questions I would like to ask Jesus?
Meditation Practice
Join Rev. Emily Meyer, Director of The Ministry Lab, as she invites you to wonder and reflect in the audio recording below.
Video Conversation & Reflection
Join Rev. Sara Morse, Hazel Park UCC, St. Paul and Pastor Sheri Nelson, UCC Outdoor Ministry Program Director for conversation and reflection.
Creative Project
Question Marks
Creative, hands-on, ages 3+
Materials: print the question mark pdf, or make your own page filled with only question marks (to start).
How To:
- It’s funny to have a coloring page just filled with question marks, isn’t it? Reflect on that for a moment! Sometimes being bold is about not knowing, and asking questions.
- For littles, just enjoy the process of coloring in question marks.
- For older kids, you can add your own questions, silly or real or bold or otherwise, and get really creative with your writing and designs. Talk about what makes a question a question, how to ask good questions, what curiosity looks like in different spaces.
Game
Parent for the (Fill-in-the-Blank: Day/Dinner/Morning/Etc.)
Playful, theatrical, ages 4+
How To: Let your child take over all, or a part of the day. Start small, with transitional moments, and be clear about how you signal when the game is over, (e.g. “Once we finish brushing our teeth, we’ll go back to our normal selves.”).
Why: This kind of role reversal opens up communication and can help your child to understand you better as a parent, and for you to better understand their perspective. It gives them a chance to practice making decisions, having control, and giving direction or feedback. These are important skills they don’t always get to practice in an unconditional setting, especially when they can’t be at school. For older kids, you can be more sophisticated with it, and let them set the rules for media and meals from time to time. These are excellent conversation-starters!
Caring for the Common Good
The Power of Speaking Up
It takes courage to speak up boldly when you see inequality or injustice. By encouraging your children to use their voices – for issues big and small — you’ll empower them to make a difference through their lives. Sharing your family’s concerns with elected officials is a great starting point.
Ages 5+, reflective
Materials: paper, pen, envelope, stamp; computer + printer
How to:
- Gather Addresses: Find your congressional leaders here. Find your state and local leaders here. Use this template (attach Advocacy printable.pdf to post their names, email addresses, phone numbers and photos in a prominent place – perhaps the refrigerator.
- Choose an issue: Browse these advocacy templates and choose one that speaks to you. Or when an issue arises that you feel is important, talk to your family about why it matters to you. Ask their opinion, too.
- Discuss how your family will make a difference: First consider how your family will volunteer or donate to an organization working on that issue. If using one of the templates, you’ll find ideas there.
- Write a letter: After your chat about your issue, send a note to your representative stating your position. If you have younger children, have them draw a picture.
- Celebrate the result: If you get a response, post it on the refrigerator!
Reflect Together
- What issues would be most important to you if you were an elected official?
- What are other ways you can you get involved and have your voice heard?
Children’s Picture Book
Say Something by Peter Reynolds
