Garden City Community Church always has busy weekends, but October 26th and 27th were special due to a number of events. "Family Game Night" was held on Saturday, followed by special guest, president and CEO of the U. S. Fund for UNICEF, Caryl M. Stern speaking during the Forum and giving the sermon on Children's Sabbath Sunday.
"Family Game night was sponsored by the Board of Christian Education for families of all ages. Laura Baymack...organized an exceptional array of games that both challenged your coordination and also your brain! Thanks to all kids and parents who pitched in to help!" Drew Hearon, Chairman of the Board of Christian Education remarked. Games included "Bucket Head," "Defying Gravity," "Separation Anxiety" and "Noodling Around."
"Brooke Warhurst set up a snack bar selling home-made baked goods and delicious chocolate lollipops, in order to raise money to...remodel the Church Crib room," Hearon added, as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project.
Sunday morning GCCC member and friend, Robin Laisure introduced Ms. Stern as a "brave and caring woman." Stern spoke about her personal experiences working with children from 42 countries with UNICEF.
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"UNICEF does whatever it can to save a child anywhere in the world," Caryl Stern stated. "We don't get to choose where we're born."
Stern is also an author who has written a new book entitled, I Believe in Zero with stories of "hope, resilience, determination and family." The title is derived from the "important UNICEF mission: reduce the number of children under the age of five who die from preventable causes from 19,000 each day to ZERO." For more information, please visit www.unicefusa.org.
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During the service the Children's Carol Choir sang "Praise, Rejoice and Sing" by Allen Pote and accompanied by flutist, Lana Noone. The "Prayer of Blessing" for all children was given on the chancel steps, surrounded by new, colorful "Children's Sabbath" banners. The Bell Choir performed a lovely rendition of "Celebrate With Joy" by Cynthia Dobrinski, led by Music Minister, Frank Crosio.
Please mark calendars for the upcoming special events at the Community Church:
Saturday, November 16th- Americana Fair- 10 am to 4 pm. Popular annual event.
Saturday, December 7th- Christmas Tree Sale and Holiday Gift Shop the Block.
The Garden City Community Church is part of the United Church of Christ and is an Open and Affirming congregation. Worship services are Sundays at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m., with church school for children and a crib room for infants and toddlers during the latter service. It is located at Stewart Avenue and Whitehall Blvd. For more information, call 746-1700 or visit our website at www.GardenCityCommunityChurch.org.
(photos by Suzie Alvey)
