kids
It is our desire that every child who attends Calvary Kids feels known , loved and cared for . This year our focus was growing in our love for one another as we followed the definition of love laid out for us in 1 John 3:18 .
Our staff has had the joy of watching our community of volunteers and families love others through their actions and in truth .
Here are a few ways we have seen our community grow in love throughout the past year :
• Our Kids-N-Action community put their love in action through their generosity . o This year they raised over $ 800 for Faith in Deeds Children ’ s Home in India to buy chickens for their farm . o They were also able to donate hundreds of new pajamas for children in the foster care system throughout West Michigan .
• Our volunteer community put their love in action through their hospitality . o As we welcomed speakers of other languages into our classrooms , we were able to watch our volunteers work diligently and warmly to welcome and love the children through non -verbal communication and kind smiles . o In addition , those with special needs have been welcomed with open arms into our classes as volunteers adapted and cared for each child individually either in the Crow ’ s Nest room or in their age-specific classrooms . o Further , those children coming from foster care or those newly adopted into families , have received the kindest of welcomes as well as the sensitivity towards the changes that come with big life transitions .
• Our community of families put their love in action through the giving of their time . o Families wrapped around one another as they faced job loss , illnesses and welcoming new children through adoption or foster care . o These families supported each other in myriad ways : providing meals , transportation , help with household upkeep , respite childcare and most importantly prayer .
It has been a joy to watch Calvary Kids , as a community comprising families , volunteers , and students , wrap around one another with love . Our hope is that the love our families have felt this year gives them a small glimpse of how much God loves and cherishes them .
Shelly Lamport , Pastoral Staff , Calvary Kids
Calvary Kids Ministry Staff
Shelly Lamport , Pastoral Staff Simon Endacott , Assistant Director Don Hancock , Program Coordinator Liz Thelen , Volunteer Coordinator Carla Boon-Julien , Ministry Assistant
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