Growing a Deeper Connection to CHRIST
The ESC theme for the year 2024 is Connection—Growing a deeper connection to Christ is the task set before us—for Children, Teens, and Adults. Seeking a deeper connection to Christ, to our church and to our community can be an amazing and fortifying experience.
During this month of February, we have much to celebrate. We remember the contributions of the descendants of the African Diaspora by recognizing Black History month; All tithers month allows us to bless God’s house while He blesses ours; and even, Reconciliation Sunday – a great time be intentional and broaden our evangelism efforts to Share Jesus and encourage ourselves and others to connect to the Kingdom of God.
In order to connect to God, we must be close to HIM. As parents, we are instructed to bond with our children as soon as they are born. Early bonding activities, according to research, prepares our children to learn how to form positive relationships as they age. Just as consistently connecting with Christ through a variety of ways ensures we have a firm foundation and growth toward a solid relationship with our Heavenly Father.
Parents, we must take the lead. If the family is connected to the church community, as time goes on, the creation of spiritual habits and relationships sticks with our children. Even in periods when our kids seem less interested in connecting with church, the seed has been planted. Proverbs 22:6 says, “…train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
Thankfully, God has given us an instruction manual on how to connect with Him and grow our faith – The Bible. So, we must set the example for our children. Micah 6:8 says “… what does the LORD require of you. But to do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God.” There is not one parent on this earth who is perfect, but Christ’s mercy and forgiveness are more than sufficient. So instead of being embarrassed about the times when we have fallen short, be an example of how to humbly admit mistakes and take steps to correct them. Our humility glorifies the Lord.
As we set forth to strengthen our connections to Christ, to our church and to our community, let us remember God’s instruction manual, the Bible. All answers are found there. Bonding with our children by studying God’s word together, praying together, and seeking out connection activities within the church, we grow the body of believers; and this reminds us that God is infinite and there are infinite ways to connect to Him.
Resources – Deeper Connection with Christ
The Armor of God – Priscilla Shirer – Book Info Here
Growing in God: Discipling Yourself…Teen Edition – Jennifer N. Pearson – Book Infor Here
Cru.org – (Campus Crusade for Christ) – Parent Resources Info Here
Life Illustrated: Daily Thoughts for Your Daily Walk – Pastor Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr. – Book Info Here
Scripture Resources: Colossians 3:1-3; John 15:4-8; Philippians 4:13; Matthew 7:8; Micah 6:8; Proverbs 22:6.
Need Counseling? Contact ESC Care Center @ 317-547-5483 ext. 144
The IGNITE Team
Please be aware of the following programming for children and teens at Eastern Star for February 2024.
Children’s Programming
Sunday School – Sunday School happens at the following times and locations: Fishers Campus – 8:00am; Cooper Rd. Campus – 9:30am; Main Campus – 11:00 am.
Please note: Children Sunday School will be at the Rock Community Center for Youth & Children (RCCYC) for those who attend the Main Campus.
Children’s Church – Children’s Church will be offered at Fishers and Cooper Campuses on the 1st and 3rdSundays.
On the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Sundays, Children’s Church will be held at the Rock Community Center for Youth and Children (RCCYC) for those who attend the Main Campus
Children’s Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) – Children’s Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) happens at each campus on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. during Adult Bible Study. Come join us!
Teen Programming
Sunday School – Sunday School happens at the following times and locations: Fishers Campus – 8:00am; Cooper Rd. Campus – 9:30am; Main Campus – 11:00 am.
Please note: Teen Sunday School will be at the Rock Community Center for Youth & Children (RCCYC)for those who attend the Main Campus.
Teen Church – 1st & 3rd Sundays, – Teen Church is in person at your select campus.
Teen Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) – Teen Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) happens at each campus on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. during Adult Bible Study. Come join us!
Rock City Mondays – Resumes MONDAY, March 4th, 2024.
Every Monday at the Rock (RCCYC). Starting at 4:30 p.m. and ending at 8:00 p.m. Bring your teen to participate. ALL are Welcome!
Upcoming February Events
February 1st: ESC Scholarship Applications Open
February 4th: Children and Teen Church on each campus
February 7th: Children and Teens Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) on each campus
February 14th: Children and Teen Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) on each campus
Corporate Fast Begins
February 18th: Children and Teen Church on each campus
February 21st: Children and Teen Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) on each campus
February 25th: Children’s Church Main Campus only
February 28th: Children and Teen Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) on each campus
Save the MARCH Dates:
March 3rd: Children and Teen Church on each campus
March 4th: ROCK City Monday (first session)
March 6th: Children and Teen Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) on each campus
March 11th: ROCK City Monday
March 13th: Children and Teen Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) on each campus
March 17th: Children and Teen Church on each campus
March 18th: ROCK City Monday
March 20th: Children and Teen Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) on each campus
March 24th: Children’s Church Main Campus only
March 25th: ROCK City Monday
March 27th: Children and Teen Discipleship Groups (Bible Study) on each campus
Questions about ESC IGNITE Children & Teen Ministry? Email youthmin@easternstarchurch.org