Snacks for Miracle Place
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Students from our Disciples Sunday school class, grades 4-6, gathered recently to learn more about the children’s programs at Miracle Place in Indianapolis. Doing homework, reading, playing games, participating in Cub Scouts, decorating cookies, shooting hoops, and participating in the fitness program provide the children with a safe, warm and loving environment. The care and concern of the staff and volunteers at Miracle Place give the children a sense of belonging. Lessons in politeness, respect, and self-discipline are emphasized each day.
They gathered in our newly-renovated Narthex space to hear about the program and facilities, a discussion led by Deacon Cathy Scott and parent Susan Stahly. Following the discussion, the students and leaders prepared snacks that will be enjoyed by students who attend the Miracle Place after school program.
Larry, our new friend from England, stopped by to help pack a few snacks and sign notes to the children.
Disciples class students presented the snacks during the Offertory at Sunday’s 10 AM service and helped bless them before they were delivered to Miracle Place during the week. More information about outreach projects at Holy Family can be seen by clicking HERE or contacting the church office. admin@hfec.org
Shrove Tuesday 2016
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Shrove Tuesday at Holy Family was particularly exciting this year as we celebrated the first large-scale use of our new parish hall. We held a liturgy to burn palms from 2015, the ashes from which will be used in our services tomorrow on Ash Wednesday.
We “buried the Alleluia” and put away our gold and white banner until Easter Vigil.
Finally, we enjoyed pancakes with all the extras in our annual Pancake Supper youth group fundraiser. Special thanks are extended to all those who cooked and served food at tonight’s event.
New Jr. Daughters of the King
On February 7th, Holy Family installed its newest members to our chapter of Junior Daughters of the King. Pictured from left to right are The Reverend Michael Galvin, Kristine Canter (Co-Director), Katlyn Stahly, Zoe Bruns, Ruth Everett (Co-Director); front row: Maci Blake, Sophia Paden.
Christmas 2015
Holy Family enjoyed plenty of family time this year. Click each link to view photos from our Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services.
Candy Cane Evangelism
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In our final intergenerational Advent Sunday school gathering this year, Deacon Cathy Scott engaged children and adults in a discussion about evangelism.
Sunday school mentor Heather Tannas read The Legend of the Candy Cane by Lori Walburg which explains the Christian symbolism of the traditional holiday candy.
Following the story, participants created welcome bundles for family and friends that include a packet of hot cocoa, a candy cane, and a postcard with Christmas service times. The bundles were distributed to families during the 10 AM service to invite others to spend Christmas with our Holy Family.
Ugly Sweater Sunday 2015
Holy Family held its first Ugly Sweater Sunday and encouraged all members to wear their finest holiday wear. Winners were crowned in categories including Best Children’s Sweater, Best Homemade Sweater, Noisiest Sweater, and Best (Worst?) Ugly Sweater Overall. Additional photos of more ugly sweaters can be seen by clicking HERE.
Twelve Ways of Giving
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During our 9 AM Christian education hour, we gathered everyone together for an intergenerational approach to Advent. First, we heard a reading of The Legend of St. Nicholas: A Story of Christmas Giving by Dandi Daley Mackall. Then our Youth Group members presented a comical rendition of the Twelve Days of Christmas.
Our participants divided into three groups and brainstormed “ways of giving” in honor of St. Nicholas. They were encouraged to think about ways to “be present” in the lives of friends and family as well as ways of physically giving money or other items.
The ideas were compiled into a convenient handout that was distributed to families following the 10 AM service. Children were also offered a chocolate coin in honor of St. Nicholas. For more information about our youth or adult Christian programming, please contact Jolene Johnston. jjohnston@hfec.org
Junior DOK: Class of 2016
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On a chilly Monday evening in November, a candlelight service was held for the Mary & Martha Chapter of the Jr. Daughters of the King. This service of preparation for Junior membership takes place before prospective members begin a three-month study and discernment period. During this service, four new candidates promised to be faithful in their study and preparation for membership in The Order.
Zoe Bruns, Sophia Paden, Katlyn Stahly, and Maci Blake and were welcomed and supported by several of the current Junior and Senior Daughters, along with the Jr. DOK co-directresses (Kristine Canter and Ruth Everett) and Fr. Mike, who led the service. For more information about Junior Daughters of the King, please contact our church office. admin@hfec.org
Acolyte Training 2015
Following the 10 AM service on Sunday, acolyte leader Joe Spangler and Father Mike led a training session for new and returning acolytes. Following the session, everyone was invited to share in a pizza lunch. If you or your child is interested in serving as an acolyte, please contact the church office. admin@hfec.org
Magic or Miracles?
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This week, children in our Sunday school and Youth Group programs finished their fall unit about the Miracles of Jesus. Children and teachers presented a few magic tricks to the group and shared in a meaningful discussion about why the miracles of Jesus were much more than just magic.
Following the discussion, the children got into small groups and planned out ways to present the bible stories we reviewed through charades. The stories included Jesus walking on water, calming the storm, healing the blind and paralyzed, filling the nets with fish, and feeding the five thousand.
