LAST CHANCE TO SIGN UP!
Next weekend is a wonderful opportunity for dad and sons! Camp Orchard Hill is running a Father Son Retreat and you can still join!

For more info and to register click here.

We're off and running!
The Healthy Kids Running Series is off and running! Want to your child to try it? You can still sign up for the rest of the series ( 5/10, 5/17, 5/31 at 2pm.) or have them try one race! 

The HKRS' goal is to motivate kids to lead a healthy and active lifestyle through a positive introduction to the world of running. There are five races (one a week for 5 weeks). Kids ages 2-14  years old  race age appropriate distances (see  below). At the end of the five weeks series, all kids will receive a medal for participating. In competitive division (ages kindergarten and up), the top finishers will be awarded a trophy as well.

 Following Jesus and carrying out the good work He left for us to do is an epic quest—a journey that none of us can complete on our own. That’s why this month’s theme is “Trek: Don’t stop, don’t give up God’s with you,” so kids can remember that God will help them on this grand adventure, every step of the way.

WEEK 3 - Paul Becomes a Believer / Ananias Helps Paul -
The model religious leader Saul travels to Damascus to arrest Jesus followers. But on the road, he has a dramatic meeting with Jesus that leaves him blind. When God sends Ananias to help restore Saul’s sight, Saul begins to see everything in a brand-new light. Instead of arresting Jesus followers, Saul preaches Jesus so persuasively that even a plot to kill Saul can’t stop him. This Week's Bottom Line: "God can help you see things in a new way."
 

One of the goals of Children's Ministry at Sparta Church is to help equip parents to be the primary disciplers of their kids. This event was created to help parents with two things: intentionality and friends.  Imperative to find like-minded families to do this parenting journey alongside. So join us for a Rock Painting Party- an opportunity to play and be creative with your kids while getting to know other families at church!
 
On Friday May 29th from 4:30-6:30pm, we're having a Family Rock Painting Party and Picnic. We'll be painting rocks to create a rock garden around our Children's Ministry Wing. All supplies are provided! Pack a picnic dinner, bring your creativity, and enjoy a night of funn a busy a world, it's so important for us to set times to play and talk with our kids.  It's also i and fellowship with other church families! Registration is not required but is appreciated!

Breakaway Day Camp is our 4 week summer day camp for kids ages 6-12 in our church and community! Each week (register up for as many as your like) is full of activity, energy and a daily Bible lesson. Find out more here.

The Awesome Super Fantastic Forever Party: A True Story about Heaven, Jesus, and the Best Invitation of All

 by Joni Eareckson Tada

What will heaven be like? Answering this question for kids can be challenging.
This biblically faithful storybook shares the  truth that when Jesus comes back to this world, he will bring heaven with him! There will be a new creation where well have new hearts and a new body, living in a new city. And best of all, we'll be with Jesus, forever! It will be better than we can ever imagine.

He Always Hears: A Story for Kids on Grief, Lament, and Hope

By: Alyson Punzi

In this book designed for kids ages 3–8, Jane faces challenges when her seemingly perfect life takes a difficult turn. After enduring a series of losses that leave her feeling scared, Jane’s parents teach her how to cry out to the Lord―the one who hears her cries and is working to make all things new. Whether kids are dealing with pain big or small, this book encourages them to turn to God in their moments of sorrow.

Goodbye to Goodbyes: A True Story about Jesus, Lazarus, and an Empty Tomb

By Lauren Chandler

Goodbye to Goodbyes  is a simply retold story of Lazarus rising from the dead. It points to the hope that someday, there will be no more goodbyes. It honestly acknowledges the grief of death while pointing to the hope of Heaven. 

Where Did TJ Go?: A Book for Kids on Grief and Loss

By: Annie F. Downs with Tatum Green

Where Did TJ Go? helps grieving families explain what happened and what kind of experiences a child might be having in heaven with the God who loves them and makes everything good in its time. Tender and sincere, this story doesn't shy away from the hurt even as it offers comfort and hope to those left behind.