My role is focused more on Sunday mornings but a typical week leading up to Sunday consists of reflection for the last Sunday. Looking at what went well, what can be improved and floods of ideas for next time. I am still fairly new to SMR. But I have enjoyed getting to know everyone, from the parish office, Children’s ministry leadership team, volunteers at the church and the congregation.

At the beginning of the year, I felt a strong pull to teach on mental health – primarily Depression and anxiety. This had such a great impact on the children we were able to understand our human emotions and put them into visual representations and understand what the word of God says regarding these emotions and feelings.

It was great to hear some of the adults’ feedback on this as well. A few of the children are making the transition to high school this year and emotions can be quite overwhelming. Providing a safe place where it doesn’t feel like school or another institution.

Being a visual learner myself, I feel like it is so important to make sure all ages can get together and use different senses. We have been creative with painting our hands using the 5 prayer fingers. and learning how God hears our prayers. Referencing Ezekiel 34:11-16/20:24 'My Sheep hear my voice' It is so important to in my position to show the Love of God and encourage the children to build on their relationship with God through creativity using the bible.

I am so excited to see how this year progresses as we build up our relationships with each other. 

Keilah Ayuba Cadogan