Recently a child from the neighborhood rang the doorbell of the church and asked if he could come inside. When I inquired what he was wanting, the child said he just wanted to come inside and “hang out”. This request made me smile. I’m used to kids asking to use the bathroom or get a drink of water, but wanting to “hang out” was a new request. Then when I stopped to think about it, his request didn’t surprise me that much. Children in the neighborhood have come inside our church for a variety of community activities and events this fall. Here’s an overview of what’s been happening.
Exercise Class - The after-school program at Rosedale Ridge (the housing complex up the hill from the church) used our church building for an exercise class two days a week. For five weeks this fall, K-3rd graders exercised on Wednesdays and 4th-8th graders exercised on Thursdays. Typically there were about 8-12 kids that would attend each class, along with adult staff and volunteers. The Kansas City Urban Youth Center coordinates their after-school program.
Game Night – Uno Flash and Break the Ice were two popular board games that children from the community played at our Family Game Night this fall. On Oct 25, families of Freedom School scholars and children from the Rosedale Ridge after-school program came to our church for a fun evening of pizza, board games and conversation. Approximately 60-70 people attended. This event is organized by our church’s Outreach Committee.
Health Fair and Healthy Halloween – Our church hosted the 2nd annual Health Fair/Healthy Halloween event on Saturday, Oct 29. Staff and med students from KU Med Center organized a health fair in our Fellowship Hall and gave flu shots to about 30 people. Meanwhile, kids had fun outside with the bounce house, bean bag toss, frisbee toss, pumpkin decorating, costume dress-up station, and dancing. The Rosedale Healthy Kids Initiative organized this Healthy Halloween event. Approximately 75 kids came and had a wonderful time, despite their being no candy and only healthy treats like apples and popcorn.
Sometimes I’m amazed by the many different events and activities that happen in our Fellowship Hall. I’m grateful for our church’s willingness to open our space and host events that benefit the community. I think it’s an important way that we relate to the surrounding community and open ourselves to our neighbors.
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