ORUCC June Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on June 4, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

June 2025

Dear Families,

Thank you for worshiping us with us on Sunday, June 1, in celebration of the close of the 2024-25 programming year. Joining together to recognize the highlights of our time together, the rich intergenerational experiences, and the many volunteers who made this year possible was powerful and heartwarming.

Just as your family rhythms change in the warmer months, our children and youth programming enters a different rhythm as well. For the rest of the summer, we’ll be coming to your inbox once a month with updates. There is no 9:00 a.m. faith formation for the summer, but there are still exciting things happening for kids’ at ORUCC!

Please scroll down to be kept in the know of events and for a home prayer.

We pray for a joyful, peaceful end to the school year as you embark on your summer adventures.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Family Game Night

June 6, 6:00-8:00 p.m.

This month for Game Night we will be having sandwiches for dinner, using the unopened bread and meat saved from Work & Worship Sunday. Some families are bringing waffle irons or panini presses to allow us to have hot sandwiches! Please bring something to share for the potluck portion–either a favorite sandwich topping or a side that can go with sandwiches. Cake for Devin’s and Sage’s birthdays will also be provided. Bring games and some food to share so that we can have great conversation and fellowship.

(FYI: Game night will take a hiatus in July and August and resume in September.)

Children’s Sunday

Summer Programming

There is no 9:00 a.m. faith formation or regular nursery care during the summer. Our children and youth music programs will also take a break (TRU Function and Music Connections).

However, throughout the summer there are special opportunities for children’s participation during 10:00 a.m. worship. On the 2nd and 4th Sundays, we will will have special events or “Kids in the Kitchen,” for children ages 5 years old and up (younger children my participate with a caregiver present). Kids in the Kitchen is an opportunity to hear a Bible story and have fellowship with other children and adult volunteers as the kids make a snack to share with the congregation following worship.

Throughout the summer, on the 1st and 3rd Sundays, we will have a nursery care provider available in the Crossroads to offer “supported childcare” for young ones.

June Events

June 8, “Bee Hotel” Project: During worship at 10:00 a.m., children ages 5+ are invited to join Julie and Rachael to make “Bee Hotels” that will be placed around the ORUCC property. Children should gather in worship with their caregivers and will be dismissed to participate in the project.

June 15, Supported Childcare 9:30-11:30 in the Crossroads with Abby. This service allows parents of children ages 0-5 to socialize and engage in the service, but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well.

June 22, 10:00 a.m. Outdoor Worship at ORUCC:

An engaging opportunity for all ages to enjoy the beauty of Creation in worship on the lawn.

June 29, No special Children’s 10:00 a.m. programming. Children are encouraged to attend worship with their caregivers. Many families may be heading up to Moon Beach Family Camp this day (June 29-July 6).

Youth Service Trip

June 15-21 to Kansas City

Pastor Kate, three adult chaperones (Rob, Kristen, Dan), one “camp cook” (Gavin) and one gear van driver (Kellie) will accompany 14 youth from ORUCC on a service and learning trip with Be The Neighbor, a UCC/DoC progressive Christians service organization. This year’s theme is “Let Love be Louder.” We are looking forward to learning about “Justice 101” as we serve in Kansas City, in addition to fellowship and fun!

Intergenerational Pen-Pals Project

If you signed up for our pen pals project this summer, be on the lookout for an email next week with more details and your pen pal match! Please plan on writing or drawing a letter/card at least 3 times during June 15-September 15.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Faith Formation Celebration June 1:

Garden Mosaics for ORUCC gardens

In celebration of our final Sunday for the ’24-’25 programming year, the children had an opportunity to create garden mosaic pavers that will be placed near the ORUCC veggie village. Joyce Pohl and Susan Dovell assisted us with the project.

Home Prayer for the Week:

You are invited to use this prayer with your family to help deepen your faith together. Times you might consider sharing this prayer include before bedtime, at mealtime, or any other regular connecting moment you share with your child(ren). Does your family have a prayer practice or a favorite prayer? If you are comfortable sharing, please EMAIL JULIE, and your family’s prayer will be featured here.

We can have peace every time we take a break.

We breathe in deep.

We can have peace everytime we slow down.

We notice the world around us.

We can have peace every time we are quiet before God.

Thank you, God, for peace.

-From Faithful Families for Advent and Christmas, Traci Smith

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC June 1 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 28, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

June 1, 2025

Dear Families,

This Sunday, June 1, is the close of the 2024-25 programming year! We have some special opportunities this coming Sunday in celebration:

PreK-6th Grade: At 9 am, all attending children are invited to the Bridges Room to create a Garden Mosaic Stepping Stone that will be placed in the ORUCC gardens.

Older youth (7th-H.S.): TRU Function will practice at 8:30 a.m. in preparation for worship.

Youth not in TRU Function will meet with Pastor Kate and Al for Breakfast Club to help set up for Worship and Sundae Sunday celebrations. Older youth may also participate in making a stepping stone if desired.

Then, at 10 am Worship, we will have a special recognition of our graduating Seniors and celebrate our children and youth ministry year. TRU Function will lead us in music. Be sure to stay for sundaes after worship!

Abby will be available in the Crossroads for Supported Childcare from 8:30-11:30. This service allows parents of children ages 0-5 to socialize and engage in the service, but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well.

For the rest of the summer, we’ll be coming to your inbox once a month with updates. Be sure to scroll down to be kept in the know of events and for a home prayer.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Upcoming Events

June 1, 9:00 a.m. “Parents Together” Peer Support: Join other parents at ORUCC for a time to share in the joys and challenges of parenting while your kids are in Faith Formation. Led by Joanna and Claire, this peer support group is open to all parents of kids’ at any age or stage.
June 1, 10:00 a.m. Worship & “Sundae Sunday” Celebration: We will recognize our graduating Seniors, honor our children and youth ministry volunteers, and celebrate the end of the programming year with Ice Cream sundaes after worship!
June 6, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Family Game Night: Come for the final game night before a break for the summer. Join this casual time of fellowship with a potluck dinner and board games galore!
June 8, during worship: Children ages 6+ are invited to join Julie and Rachael to make Bee Boxes that will be hung around the ORUCC property.
June 15, Supported Childcare 9:30-11:30 in the Crossroads with Abby
June 15-21, Youth Service Trip to Kansas City, MO

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Summer Intergenerational Pen Pals

The summer pen pals initiative presents a wonderful opportunity for our congregation to connect across generations. Older and younger pen pals will be paired up to share in a fun and meaningful exchange of experiences, stories, and encouragement. Participants will commit to sending three heartfelt snail-mail letters throughout the summer.

At this time, we are gathering interest in the program. Please fill out THIS form or contact Julie or Kate if you would like to be considered for our Pen Pal program. The deadline to express interest is May 30.

God the Creator Still at Work:

Faith Formation 5/18

Our 9 AM Faith Formation hour for PreK-6th grade began indoors with a time to reflect on the words of Psalm 104. The children later traveled outside to draw chalk images from the Psalm and continue to make observations about the world around them. Our time ended with an opportunity to share what they are grateful for in creation. See prayer below for instructions on how to recreate this experience at home.

“According to the psalmist, creation did not end in Genesis; it continues even today.

We see God watering the earth, causing grass and plants to grow to feed the animals and people, providing places for shelter, and marking the seasons. It is this important idea that the psalmist wants to communicate—creation continues, and God the Creator is still at work lovingly tending the earth and its creatures, both great and small,”

-From Path to Peace with Creation.

Home Prayer for the Week:

A Prayer for the end of the school year:

On this day, God, I shine, shine, shine!

I feel proud and so happy-

I did it!

When I do great things, help me to remember this:

You love me when I do great things, and you love me when I don’t.

Your love is always there for me.

I don’t have to earn it.

-From Prayers for Faithful Families, Traci Smith

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC May 25 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 21, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, May 25, 2025

Dear Families,

Due to the Memorial Day Holiday Weekend, we will not hold 9 AM Faith Formation this Sunday. Your child is welcome to attend the 10 am Worship Service. Najma and Jade will be available in the Nursery to care for children ages 0-5, 9:30-11:30. Scroll to the end of this email for a special prayer practice your family can engage in together.

Music Opportunities this week: There will be no 10:00 a.m. Music Connections (2nd-6th grade). Children are encouraged to remain in worship with their families. TRU Function (youth band) will have their practice as normal from 10:00-noon.

At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Upcoming Events

May 23-25 Brat Fest Fundraiser for Youth Service Trip: All youth attending the Service Trip are expected to sign up to participate in the Brat Fest fundraiser. Anyone else from the congregation who would like to volunteer under our group’s name (Orchard Ridge UCC) will also have their hours counted toward our fundraiser! Please sign up here if you would like to participate.
May 26, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Mandatory Service Trip Meeting: for any youth and chaperones attending this year’s service trip. We will go over important information as we share fellowship together.
June 1, Sundae Sunday: Final day of Faith Formation for children and Youth for the programming year. During worship we will have a special recognition of our graduating Seniors and celebrate our children and youth ministry year. Stay for sundaes after worship!
June 1, 9:00 a.m. “Parents Together” Peer Support: Join other parents at ORUCC for a time to share in the joys and challenges of parenting while your kids are in Faith Formation. Led by Joanna and Claire, this peer support group is open to all parents of kids’ at any age or stage.
June 6, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Family Game Night: Come for the final game night before a break for the summer. Join this casual time of fellowship with a potluck dinner and board games galore!

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Summer Intergenerational Pen Pals

God the Creator Still at Work:

Faith Formation 5/18

“According to the psalmist, creation did not end in Genesis; it continues even today.

-From Path to Peace with Creation.

Home Prayer for the Week:

Create a “spring” of water as you express gratitude to God for the beauty of creation. Set a small bowl inside a large bowl or basin. Fill the small bowl half full of water. Give your family members several stones or marbles. As family members name something they are grateful for in creation, they can place a stone in the small bowl. Continue placing stones in the small bowl until the water overflows into the larger bowl or basin.

-From Path to Peace with Creation

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC May 18 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 14, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, May 18, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this week. Read on below for details about this opportunity and other things happening this Sunday. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Supported Childcare Najma will be available in the Crossroads 8:30-11:30. This service allows parents to socialize and engage in the service, but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am.

PreK-6th Grade (Ruby Bridges Room): This week, the children will gather together to reflect upon the words of Psalm 104. Following the discussion, the children will be invited to explore multi-sensory stations to deepen their understanding of the text. Weather permitting, we’ll travel outdoors to draw and make observations of our natural surroundings. Megan, Barbara, and Marcia will guide the children through the experience.

7th-HS (Dorothy Day Room): Youth will join Kristin and Susan for the final session of “Tell Me About the Bible: Extraordinary Leaders”. This interactive series focuses on some lesser-known characters from the Bible who have something important to teach us about leadership. This week youth will learn about the story of Priscilla.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for our final Music Connections of the 2024-25 programming year. This week, we’ll freely explore many the many instruments in our collection – African Drums, xylophones, and ukuleles. We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer. Can you help? Email Julie if you, or your teen, can.

TRU Function: Practice from 10-noon in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

May 23-25 Brat Fest Fundraiser for Youth Service Trip: All youth attending the Service Trip are expected to sign up to participate in the Brat Fest fundraiser. Anyone else from the congregation who would like to volunteer under our group’s name (Orchard Ridge UCC) will also have their hours counted toward our fundraiser! Please sign up here if you would like to participate.
May 25 No 9 AM Faith Formation or 10 AM Music Connections
May 26, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Mandatory Service Trip Meeting: for any youth and chaperones attending this year’s service trip. We will go over important information as we share fellowship together.
June 1, Sundae Sunday: Final day of Faith Formation for children and Youth for the programming year. During worship we will have a special recognition of our graduating Seniors and celebrate our children and youth ministry year. Stay for sundaes after worship!
June 6, 6:00-8:00 Family Game Night: Come for the final game night before a break for the summer. Join this casual time of fellowship with a potluck dinner and board games galore!

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

May 10 – Celebrating Pat Hale’s 100th Birthday

On Sunday, our children helped to brighten Pat Hale’s birthday celebration with handmade tissue paper flowers and a poster.

Creation Care Sunday!

On Sunday, May 4, we had a special Creation Care celebration. During the 9 am Faith Formation hour, members of our Care of Creation team led the children and youth in an outdoor nature scavenger hunt. In mixed-age teams, everyone had the opportunity to discover the variety of plants surrounding the church. The children also gathered natural materials that will be used later this summer in a hands-on project to create bee homes for our gardens.

During worship. The children of Music Connections (accompanied by several of their parents) shared an engaging reflection on the Creation narrative with words, music, movement, and art in lieu of a traditional sermon. The Earth Quilt that the children had worked on this spring also made its debut! It was a lovely morning celebrating the beauty of God’s creation in this springtime season.

Home Prayer for the Week:

Praying in Color: A hands on home prayer exercise. From https://prayingincolor.com/praying-in-color

What you’ll need:

Paper
Pen
Colored markers or colored pencils or colored gel pens
A table or clipboard or book to put your paper on.

1) Write your name for God on a piece of paper. Draw a shape around it or just start to doodle. Let your pen take you for a walk. The drawing becomes a prayer space, a small prayer closet.

2) Add marks and shapes. Focus on the name you chose. Ask God to be part of your prayer time. If words come to you, pray them; if not, rest in the silence. Think of each stroke as a nonverbal prayer.

3) To pray for a person, write their name somewhere else on the page. Draw around the name. Add color. Keep drawing as you release the person into God’s care.

4) Add other people to your drawing. Think of each stroke of your pen as a prayer for them. Take a breath or say “Amen” between each person.

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC May 11 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 7, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, May 11, 2025

Dear Families,

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am.

PreK-6th Grade (Ruby Bridges Room): This week, the children will gather together for a special Mother’s Day lesson. We’ll reflect on the words of Ephesians 6:1-3, play a “Matriarchs of the Bible” Memory Game, and create something for the mothers in our lives. Josie and Julie M. will guide the children in this experience.

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am.

7th-HS (Dorothy Day Room): Youth will join Kristin and Susan to resume the third of four sessions on “Tell Me About the Bible: Extraordinary Leaders”. This interactive series focuses on some lesser-known characters from the Bible who have something important to teach us about leadership. This week youth will learn about the story of Phoebe.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for creative movement and a drum circle. We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer. Can you help? Email Julie if you, or your teen, can.

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or participate in Music Connections as a helper. If your child wishes to be a helper, please connect with Julie to chat about expectations. In agreement with our church’s Safe Sanctuary policy, two adults must be present in a room when working with children. Sign up to volunteer.

TRU Function: Practice from 10-noon in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

May 23-25 Brat Fest Fundraiser for Youth Service Trip: All youth attending the Service Trip are expected to sign up to participate in the Brat Fest fundraiser. Anyone else from the congregation who would like to volunteer under our group’s name (Orchard Ridge UCC) will also have their hours counted toward our fundraiser! Please sign up here if you would like to participate.
May 26, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Mandatory Service Trip Meeting: for any youth and chaperones attending this year’s service trip. We will go over important information as we share fellowship together.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Creation Care Sunday!

Home Prayer for the Week:

Mother’s Day

God, you love our mom every day.

There is nothing she needs to do or be to have your love.

She is loved by her family too.

On Mother’s Day we say, “Thank you, God, for our mom.”

May our mom know in her heart how much we love her

and how much you love her too.

-From “Prayers for Faithful Families,” by Traci Smith

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC May 4 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 30, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, May 4, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this week. Of special note, this Sunday we will have a new peer-led group experience, “Parents Together” at 9:00 a.m. Read on below for details about this opportunity and other things happening this Sunday. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Supported Childcare Abby will be available in the Crossroads 8:30-11:30. This service allows parents to socialize and engage in the service, but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am.

ALL PreK-High School Children and Youth (Ruby Bridges Room): This week, children and youth of all ages will gather for an outdoor nature scavenger hunt led by Rachael, Alice and Jill who are members of our Care of Creation Team. In mixed-age teams, everyone will have an opportunity to discover the variety of plants surrounding the church. The children will also participate in a hands-on project creating bee homes for our gardens.

After the scavenger hunt, Music Connections children will rehearse music to share in service in the Anne Frank Room. Once our rehearsal is complete, we’ll arrive at the service together.

All children will stay in worship this week as we continue a celebration of God’s creation with the whole congregation!

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections will not meet this week. Instead, the children will share their music during worship.

TRU Function: Practice from 10-noon in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

May 2, 6:00-8:00 p.m.Family Game Night: Join with other families from ORUCC for this informal monthly gathering of merriment and fun! Bring a dish to pass and a game to share.
May 4, 9:00 a.m. “Parents Together” Support Group: Raising kids is hard work, full of joy and challenge. Need some community support? Parents are invited to come together for a peer-led parents’ support group in the Oscar Romero room, facilitated by Claire Purkis and Joanna Beilman-Dulin. This will be the soft-launch of a group that will likely meet regularly in the fall.
May 23-25 Brat Fest Fundraiser for Youth Service Trip: All youth attending the Service Trip are expected to sign up to participate in the Brat Fest fundraiser. Anyone else from the congregation who would like to volunteer under our group’s name (Orchard Ridge UCC) will also have their hours counted toward our fundraiser! Please sign up here if you would like to participate.
May 26, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Mandatory Service Trip Meeting: for any youth and chaperones attending this year’s service trip. We will go over important information as we share fellowship together.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Immigration Justice Sunday, April 27

Last week, along with churches all over the state of Wisconsin, our congregation had a special service focused on Immigration Justice. Music was led by TRU Function. Ruthanne, who led the ORUCC group trip to the border in January, gave a special Children’s Message focused on “Welcome”. She included images from the “Welcome Quilt” that the children helped to created in Faith Formation a few weeks before. Ruthanne also taught the children how to say “Hello!” in the different languages of people who utilized the Welcome Center in Arizona that our ORUCC group visited this winter.

Home Prayer for the Week:

Prayer for the Earth:

We live by the sun

We feel by the moon

We move by the stars

We live in all things

All things live in us

We eat from the earth

We drink from the rain

We breathe of the air

We live in all things

All things live in us

We call to each other

We listen to each other

Our hearts deepen with love and compassion

We live in all things

All things live in us

-Unknown, from the book “Earth Prayers”

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC April 27 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 23, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, April 27, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am.

PreK-6 grade (Ruby Bridges Room): This week, all children will gather together to explore the Easter story, “Jesus is Light.” Through conversation, reflection, and multi-sensory stations, the children will discover how Jesus’ light continues to shine in each of us after his resurrection. We’ll close in a quiet meditation. Joanna and Gretchen will guide the children through the experience.

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am.

Youth (7th-High School) will meet at 9:00 a.m. in the Dorothy Day room for “Breakfast Club” with Pastor Kate and Kristin Muckian.

Youth attending service trip: Look for another email TOMORROW 4/24 with some additional information and action items!

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment, children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Bonhoeffer room. This week, we’ll further develop the Creation story with the help of some of our caregivers. Save the date: On May 4, the children and caregivers will share this music during worship.

TRU Function: TRU Function leads worship this Sunday! Gather at 8:30 a.m. for practice in the sanctuary.

Upcoming Events

May 4, 9:00 a.m. “Parents Together” Support Group: Raising kids is hard work, full of joy and challenge. Need some community support? Parents are invited to come together for a peer-led parents’ support group in the Oscar Romero room, facilitated by Claire Purkis and Joanna Beilman-Dulin. This will be the soft-launch of a group that will likely meet regularly in the fall.
May 23-25 Brat Fest Fundraiser for Youth Service Trip: All youth attending the Service Trip are expected to sign up to participate in the Brat Fest fundraiser. Anyone else from the congregation who would like to volunteer under our group’s name (Orchard Ridge UCC) will also have their hours counted toward our fundraiser! Please sign up here if you would like to participate.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Palm Sunday, Holy Week and Easter at ORUCC

On Palm Sunday, April 13, over 50 children and adults gathered in Friendship Hall to journey through Holy Week together. Through words and tangram shape-making, we heard and experienced the stories of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday. At times challenging, at times easy, new and old friends of all ages experienced Holy Week in a new way.

Children and youth participated in the week’s activities including Maundy Thursday home meals, Good Friday Tenebrae service, Easter Sunday sunrise service and 10:00 worship, followed by an Easter egg hunt! It was a beautiful week as we lived out rhythms of faith and the stories we learned together in the tangram shape-making.

Home Prayer for the Week:

Did you know that Easter is not just one day, but a whole season? The joy we began to celebrate on Easter Sunday continues for the next 50 days.

Easter is a time of new life! The growing flowers of spring remind us that there are new things happening all around us. We can have hope as we look for signs of new life that God provides. Try this breath prayer together:

Inhale: The old has gone;

Exhale: The new is here.

-Inspired by Every Season Sacred, p. 197

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC April 13 – Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 9, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, April 13, 2025

*Palm Sunday*

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. This coming Sunday is Palm Sunday, which begins Holy Week leading up to Easter. There will be a special all-ages faith formation event at 9:00 a.m. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events, photos of recent events, and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Intergenerational Faith Formation 9:00 a.m.: All are welcome to attend an all-ages faith formation event for Palm Sunday. Together, we will travel through Holy Week by story-telling, tangram creation, and a faith reflection led by Julie Mazer. What is a Tangram? A Tangram is a geometric puzzle consisting of a square cut into seven pieces. The pieces can be arranged to make various other shapes. This will be in place of regular children, youth, and adult faith formation for this Sunday.

After worship, middle and high school youth are invited to help stuff Easter eggs for our egg hunt on Easter Sunday! Pizza lunch will be provided.

No Faith Formation on Sunday, April 20 due to Easter Sunday.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections resumes this week. Following the children’s moment, children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Bonhoeffer room. This week, we’ll further develop the Creation story with the help of some of our caregivers. Save the date: On May 4, the children and caregivers will share this music during worship.

TRU Function: TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00 in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

Holy Week Services include Maundy Thursday meals April 17, Good Friday Service April 18 at 7:00 p.m.
Easter Sunday April 20: Sunrise service begins at 6:00 a.m. followed by a brunch. 10:00 Worship, followed by an Easter Egg hunt for children and youth.

In the Community

“Resilient Families” Conversation, April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today. April 13 will feature teen voices in a discussion about coping with climate change realities. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Amazing Grace

Four ORUCC youth brought home the traveling trophy for the second year in a row! Miles were run, puzzles were solved, challenges were accepted, and baby food was consumed. Over the course of two hours, these teens competed alongside 10 teams from 5 other churches. Everyone left the event joyful, tired from laughing and running, and with a little more Bible knowledge. The winning team selects an organization to donate the money from the Prize Pot. Our youth selected Casa Alitas.

Welcome Quilts with Ruthanne

On April 6, the children had the opportunity to view the Welcome Quilts in Friendship Hall and design their own Welcome Quilt square. Ruthanne Landsness led this experience and included a short lesson about welcoming newcomers who do not speak English. Ruthanne was so impressed with the children’s thoughtfulness and creativity.

Home Prayer for the Week:

The next time you are at the grocery store, consider picking up a bag of Jelly Beans and sharing this prayer with your family as you munch:

RED is the robin; we see her in spring. She feeds her babies, sheltered under her wing.

BLACK is the soil where seeds sprout and grow. Look closely and see so much life down below.

GREEN are the leaves on the flowers and trees. They shelter the animals, insects, and bees.

WHITE is the color of the clouds way up high. What interesting shapes do you see in the sky?

PINK, YELLOW, AND ORANGE make a beautiful sunrise. It reminds us of hope. It’s a daily surprise.

All of these colors are the colors of spring. They show us God’s love and the new life God can bring.

From: Faithful Families for Lent, Easter, and Resurrection by Traci Smith

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC April 6 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 2, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, April 6, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events, photos of recent events, and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am.

PreK-6th Grade: Ruthanne Landsness will lead the children’s Faith Formation hour this week. The children will be able to view the quilts in Friendship Hall, draw their own “Welcome” quilt square, and participate in a short Spanish lesson!

Following Faith Formation, the children will head straight to Music Connections. They will not start in the sanctuary this week.

Youth (7th-H.S.) will meet in the Dorothy Day room. This Sunday we are in the second of a four-session study called “Tell Me About the Bible: Extraordinary Leaders”. This interactive series will focus on some lesser-known characters from the Bible who have something important to teach us about leadership. This week we learn about Rahab from the book of Joshua. Susan Watson, Kristin and Al Blanchard will be our guides for this Sunday.

Caregivers: At 9 AM, caregivers are invited to join Pastor Kate and Julie in the Day Room to hear about Faith Formation plans for this summer and the 2025-26 school year.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections resumes this week. We’ll start right at 10:00. This week, we’ll further develop the Creation story with the help of some of our caregivers. Your child will return to the sanctuary for communion.

TRU Function: TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00 in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

Children and Youth Ministry Update (for grown ups): April 6, 9:00 a.m.: Pastor Kate and Julie will share some highlights of plans for Children and Youth ministry this summer and next programming year. Bring any questions, hopes, or wonderings you might have!

Amazing GRace (for Middle and High School Youth): Sunday, April 6 –RSVP to Julie

“The GRACE is run much like the popular CBS, TV reality show. Teams of Church Youth follow clues to make their way around the greater Madison area on a race to the finish line. Along the way, youth (as individuals and teams) complete an array of challenges to receive their next clue.

Think of it as a mash-up of: ESCAPE ROOM, BIBLE STUDY, & RACE!

The first team to finish the GRACE will win a Trophy and the PRIZE POT will be donated to the CHARITY of their choosing! BUT…. all who participate are WINNERS!” Last year, our team WON and brought home the traveling trophy. We are invited back this year to defend our winning title. Additionally, our youth will have the opportunity to meet youth from other area UCC churches.

April 13, 9 am: Palm Sunday Intergenerational Faith Formation in Friendship Hall

In the Community

Saturday, April 5, 10:00-2:00, “Doing Justice Advocacy at UW Madison: A free event geared toward current high school students (or incoming college students) who are interested in learning more about justice advocacy at UW Madison. Sponsored by the Crossing ministry, a progressive ecumenical ministry for college students. Lunch provided! RSVP to director Michael Burch at the email: [email protected]

“Resilient Families” Conversations: Coping with Climate Change Anxiety: April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today. April 13 features teen-led conversations on dealing with climate change and anxiety. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Labyrinth Walk

On Sunday, March 23, all children and youth gathered together for a mindfulness labyrinth walk. Words from the Parable of the Fig Tree guided our wonderings, thoughts, and meditations. Have you, or someone you know, ever experienced a time when it took you a little longer to learn something or grow? Was there ever a time when you needed a little more patience? How did you find or give support? Where did you find God in those tough moments?

Home Prayer for the Week:

Dear God, thank you for forgiving us when we make mistakes or hurt others. Help us to

always do the right thing, to apologize when we do something wrong, and to extend the same grace and forgiveness to others that we receive from you. Amen.

A Sanctified Art

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC March 30 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 26, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, March 30, 2025

Dear Families,

Due to Spring Break, we will not hold 9 AM Faith Formation this Sunday. Your child is welcome to attend the 10 am Worship Service. Jade will be available in the Crossroads for Supported Childcare 8:30-11:30. This service allows parents or children ages 0-5 to socialize and engage in the service. Still, it encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child. Scroll to the end of this email for a special prayer practice your family can engage in together.

Music Opportunities this week: There will be no 10:00 a.m. Music Connections (1st Grade-6th grade). Children are encouraged to remain in worship with their families. TRU Function (youth band) will have their practice as normal from 10:00-noon.

Regular programming resumes next Sunday, April 6, with a special PreK-6 grade Faith Formation hour led by Ruthanne Landsness. The children will have the opportunity to view the quilts in Friendship Hall, draw their own “Welcome” quilt square, and participate in a short Spanish lesson!

On April 6th at At 9 AM, caregivers will be invited to join Pastor Kate and Julie downstairs in the Day Room to hear about Faith Formation plans for the 2025-26 school year.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Upcoming Events

Amazing GRace (for Middle and High School Youth): Sunday, April 6 –RSVP to Julie

Think of it as a mash-up of: ESCAPE ROOM, BIBLE STUDY, & RACE!

Family Game Night, April 4, 6:00-8:00 p.m.: Join with other families from ORUCC for this informal monthly gathering of merriment and fun! Bring a dish to pass and a game to share.

Children and Youth Faith Formation Plans Update, April 6, 9:00 a.m.: Pastor Kate and Julie Mazer will share a few updates on children and youth plans for summer and the next programming year. Bring your questions and ideas! The conversation is open to anyone interested in children and youth programming at ORUCC.

In the Community

“Resilient Families” Conversations, April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today: April 13 will discuss talking about climate change. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.

Home Prayer for the Week:

At the close of our Labyrinth Walk last week, we shared this active prayer:

(Mountain) Stand straight and tall like the trunk of a tree. Take a deep breath in and out.

Imagine your feet digging deep into the earth like roots.

(Upward salute) Reach your arms as high as you can, like the branches of a tree reaching

to the sunshine.

(Rag doll) Now fold forward and let your arms dangle like the branches of a weeping willow

tree. Sway them back and forth.

(Child’s pose) Kneel down on the ground like a gardener working in the soil. Place your

hands on the ground and stretch them all the way forward.

(Table top pose) Bring your hands back under your shoulders and push up like a seed

pushing through the soil until your back is flat like a table.

(Cat/cow) Drop your belly and look up to the sky like you’re looking for fruit on a tall tree.

Now, arch your back and look down at the ground like you’re checking on the roots. Let’s

do this a few more times, slowly moving our bodies from looking up to looking down.

(Kneeling pose) Sit back on your knees and bring your palms together at your chest. Take

a few deep breaths and thank God for your body.

(Sanctified Arts)

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC March 23 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 19, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, March 23, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Supported Childcare Jade will be available in the Crossroads 8:30-11:30. This service allows parents to socialize and engage in the service but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am.

ALL Children and Youth (PreK-HS) are invited to take part in a Labyrinth walk and contemplative spiritual practice stations. We’ll first gather together in the Ruby Bridges Room. After a brief opening conversation and reflection on the “Parable of the Fig Tree,” small groups of children and youth will have the opportunity to travel through our small labyrinth in the William Johnson Room. Those waiting to walk the labyrinth will be invited to freely explore artistic, tactile, and mindfulness stations.

No Faith Formation on Sunday, March 30 due to Spring Break.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections:

Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for creative movement and xylophone play. We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer. Can you help? EMAIL JULIE

TRU Function: TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00 in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

Amazing GRace (for Middle and High School Youth): Sunday, April 6 –RSVP to Julie

Think of it as a mash-up of: ESCAPE ROOM, BIBLE STUDY, & RACE!

In the Community

“Resilient Families” Conversations, March 16 and April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today. March 16 focuses on social media usage, and April 13 on talking about climate change. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.

Saturday, April 5, 10:00-2:00, “Doing Justice Advocacy at UW Madison: A free event geared toward current high school students (or incoming college students) who are interested in learning more about justice advocacy at UW Madison. Sponsored by the Crossing ministry, a progressive ecumenical ministry for college students. Lunch provided! RSVP to director Michael Burch at the email: [email protected]

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Worry Worms

On Sunday, March 16, a small group of children gathered in the Bridges Room to make “Worry Worms.” “A “worry worm” is a small, crocheted or knitted worm-shaped toy, often used as a tool to help children manage their emotions and anxieties by providing a tangible object to talk to or hold while expressing their worries.” Once the children knew the pattern, they were able to engage in free conversation as they stitched. They openly shared thoughts about “big worries” and “small worries.” They shared openly about experiences of having worries keep them awake at night. They reflected upon how we often forget the good moments of our days, but remember, at times obsessively, about our mistakes and our faults. No solutions or problem-solving was offered. Just a safe space and an agreement that we all experience those same thoughts and feelings.

Want to try to make a worry worm? Check out THIS pattern. Crochet experience is needed for this project. There are many tutorials on YouTube and resources through the Madison Public Library.

Home Prayer for the Week:

This prayer is adapted from a prayer used during the All Church Retreat last weekend. You are invited to include some hand motions while praying, indicated in italics below.

Open our eyes (place hands over eyes)

open our ears (place hands over ears)

open our hearts (place hands over heart)

That we may come to know You, Our God (lift hands to the sky)

in the beauty of nature (open hands out wide)

in the joy of fellowship (hold hands together)

in the movement of our bodies (wiggle your body!)

in the silence of contemplation. (make prayer hands)

Amen.

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC March 16 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 12, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, March 16, 2025

Dear Families,

Several of our families will join in community together this weekend at the All Church Retreat at Daycholah Center. We will not hold 9 am Faith Formation this Sunday, but at 10 am children are welcome to attend worship and Music Connections. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

NO 9 AM FAITH FORMATION

Due to the All Church Retreat, we will not hold Faith Formation this Sunday.

Faith Formation will meet on Sunday, March 23, for a labyrinth walk for all children and youth.

No Faith Formation on Sunday, March 30 due to Spring Break.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections WILL meet this Sunday

Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for creative movement and ukulele play. Bethany will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

TRU Function: TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00 in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

Amazing GRace (for Middle and High School Youth): Sunday, April 6 –RSVP to Julie

In the Community

“Resilient Families” Conversations, March 16 and April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today. March 16 focuses on social media usage, and April 13 on talking about climate change. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.

Saturday, April 5, 10:00-2:00, “Doing Justice Advocacy at UW Madison: A free event geared toward current high school students (or incoming college students) who are interested in learning more about justice advocacy at UW Madison. Sponsored by the Crossing ministry, a progressive ecumenical ministry for college students. Lunch provided! RSVP to director Michael Burch at the email: [email protected]

Home Prayer for the Week:

At the close of our Intergenerational Faith Formation last week, we shared this prayer:

Dear God, thank you for our friends and family. Help us to be kind to everyone we meet, not just the people we know or the people we like. We want to be more like Jesus, who welcomed everyone. Amen.

(Sanctified Arts)

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC March 9 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 5, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, March 9, 2025

*Daylight Savings Begins – Set Clocks One Hour Back*

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. This coming Sunday is the First Sunday of Lent. There will be a special all-ages faith formation event at 9:00 a.m. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events, photos of recent events, and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Intergenerational Faith Formation 9:00 a.m.: All are welcome to attend an all-ages faith formation event for the first Sunday of Lent! Together, we will share story-telling and faith reflection led by Julie Mazer and conversation while we write cards to new and old friends, draw, and even act out a skit! This will be in place of regular children’s, youth, and adult faith formation for this Sunday.

Due to the All Church Retreat, There will not be 9 am Faith Formation next Sunday, March 16. Music Connections will be offered that day at 10 am.

Faith Formation will meet on Sunday, March 23, for a labyrinth walk.

No Faith Formation on Sunday, March 30 due to Spring Break.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections resumes this week. Following the children’s moment, children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Bonhoeffer room. This week, we’ll continue our exploration of the Creation story. We’ll fine-tune our soundscape by using a variety of instruments to represent nature and animals. Your child will return to the sanctuary for communion. Owen will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

TRU Function: TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00 in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

Amazing GRace (for Middle and High School Youth): Sunday, April 6 –RSVP to Julie

Think of it as a mash-up of: ESCAPE ROOM, BIBLE STUDY, & RACE!

In the Community

“Resilient Families” Conversations, March 16 and April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today. March 16 focuses on social media usage, and April 13 on talking about climate change. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Earth Quilt

On Sunday, February 2, all children and youth gathered together to begin work on a collaborative quilt. Words from The Parable of the Mustard Seed prompted wondering about things that start small and grow bigger. Not only do plants grow, but so do hope, love, peace, and joy. Our quilt will also start small and grow bigger. Quilts are often given to provide warmth and as a gesture of love. Many of the fabrics we will use were also used in projects to support other causes, like quilts for the people of Gaza. Using these materials connects us to others around the world and reminds us of the warmth of God’s Love.

Home Prayer for the Week:

*On Sunday, March 3, the children heard a story about how Ruth and Naomi found safety and acceptance after traveling from Moab to Bethlehem. This moral beautifully echos our church’s dedication to social justice. At the end of class, the children joined together in this prayer.

God, your compassion was not just sentiment and a suggestion to be nice to people. You enacted laws to make sure that the vulnerable in society were cared for. Help us move beyond empathy and feelings and take actions that will make a fair, equitable, and sustainable world for all people. Amen.

(from “Shine Curriculum”).

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC February 23 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 19, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, February 23, 2025

Dear Families,

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Jade are ready to play with your little one.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am.

ALL PreK-HS Grade Children and Youth will meet in the Bridges Room this Sunday. We’ll start with the story, “Jubilee” from the book of Leviticus. Following the story and reflection, the children will continue to work on their quilt squares. For the next month, Nancy Wettersten will guide us in making a collaborative quilt. Each child/youth is invited to design a square on the theme of “Earth.” Together, we will create something big from something small. See below for more photos of our time together.

*Our work will continue over the next two weeks. Your child has time to participate even if they cannot attend this Sunday. Ideally, they can participate in Faith Formation at least twice between February 2 and March 2 to complete their square.*

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections will not meet this week. Children are invited to attend worship to support TruFunction.

TRU Function: TRU Function will play in worship this week. Practice begins at 8:30 a.m.!

Upcoming Events

March 2, 9:00 a.m. Safe Sanctuary “Refresher”: Every year we take a moment to review the “Safe Sanctuary” policy adopted by ORUCC to provide a safe, welcoming environment for all children. All volunteers with children and youth must abide by this policy. Pastor Kate will review Safe Sanctuary for any interested adults during the 9:00 hour on March 2nd.
March 9, 9:00 a.m. All-Ages Faith Formation
March 14-16, Lenten All-Church Retreat at Daycholah Center. Take some time in the beauty of Green Lake to rest, play, and renew your faith with friends old and new. Sign up today! https://forms.gle/mo9rPyDD6jNy8Q4XA

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Earth Quilt

On Sunday, February 2, all children and youth gathered together to begin work on a collaborative quilt. Words from The Parable of the Mustard Seed prompted wondering about things that start small and grow bigger. Not only do plants grow, but so do hope, love, peace, and joy. Our quilt will also start small and grow bigger. Quilts are often given to provide warmth and as a gesture of love. Many of the fabrics we will use were also used in projects to support other causes, like quilts for the people of Gaza. Using these materials connects us to others around the world and reminds us of the warmth of God’s Love.

Home Prayer for the Week:

God of creation, thank you for the beauty of winter- for snow, icy window panes, evergreen trees, warm coats, sledding, and hot cocoa. Let us enjoy your creation in all its glory, this winter and always.

(Author Unknown)

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC February 16 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 12, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, February 16, 2025

Dear Families,

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am.

ALL PreK-6th Grade Children will meet in the Bridges Room this Sunday. We’ll start with the story, “Prison to Palace” from the book of Genesis. Following the story and reflection, the children will continue to work on their quilt squares. For the next month, Nancy Wettersten will guide us in making a collaborative quilt. Each child/youth is invited to design a square on the theme of “Earth.” Together, we will create something big from something small. See below for more photos of our time together.

*Our work will continue over the next three weeks. Your child has time to participate even if they cannot attend this Sunday. Ideally, they can participate in Faith Formation at least twice between February 2 and March 2 to complete their square.*

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am.

Youth Faith Formation (7th Grade-High School) will meet at 9:00 a.m. in the Dorothy Day room for the second of a two-week series exploring Palestinian Justice with Diane Dulin (co-Chair of ORUCC Palestinian Justice Mission Team). This week we will continue our conversation inspired by the short film documentary, My Neighbourhood. You don’t need to have seen the film to participate in the upcoming conversation, but anyone who did not have a chance to watch this film can view it online at home, too.

Any youth who would like to contribute to the children and youth quilt (described above) will have an opportunity to do so on February 23 or March 2.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for Music Connections. This week, the children will continue their exploration of the Creation Story through sound and creative movement. Bethany S. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

TRU Function: Youth who are in TRU Function will meet in the Haynes music room from 10:00-noon for regular practice.

Upcoming Events

March 2, 9:00 a.m. Safe Sanctuary “Refresher”: Every year we take a moment to review the “Safe Sanctuary” policy adopted by ORUCC to provide a safe, welcoming environment for all children. All volunteers with children and youth must abide by this policy. Pastor Kate will review Safe Sanctuary for any interested adults during the 9:00 hour on March 2nd.
March 9, 9:00 a.m. All-Ages Faith Formation
March 14-16, Lenten All-Church Retreat at Daycholah Center. Take some time in the beauty of Green Lake to rest, play, and renew your faith with friends old and new. Sign up today! https://forms.gle/mo9rPyDD6jNy8Q4XA

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Earth Quilt

On Sunday, February 2, all children and youth gathered together to begin work on a collaborative quilt. Words from The Parable of the Mustard Seed prompted wondering about things that start small and grow bigger. Not only do plants grow, but so do hope, love, peace, and joy. Our quilt will also start small and grow bigger. Quilts are often given to provide warmth and as a gesture of love. Many of the fabrics we will use were also used in projects to support other causes, like quilts for the people of Gaza. Using these materials connects us to others around the world and reminds us of the warmth of God’s Love.

Home Prayer for the Week:

For this week’s prayer practice, turn on THIS VIDEO. Invite your children to close their eyes and silently listen to the sound of the water for one to two minutes. As the river sounds continue, read these lines several times slowly:

The Spirit says, “Come.”

Let all who are thirsty come.

Let everyone receive the living water as a gift.

Come.

(From Path to Peace with Creation, Shine Curriculum)