Ramona United Methodist Church
The Valley Spirit
Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors
November 2011
Pastor Steve’s Reflections Proverbs 22:6 Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray.
Inside this issue: Opportunities to Participate
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Christmas Pageant
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Friendship Circle UMW News Turkey Dinner
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Notes from Lay
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Youth News
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LPLC
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Prayer Chain Info. Scrip San Diego UMC
OUR VISION: An inclusive community of faith, learning and serving for the glory of Christ
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How important is Christian education, especially Sunday School? Does it really matter if our children receive a solid foundation in the stories and principles of Christianity? Most of us would say “Of course a good Christian education is important.” But, then how important is it when compared to other things we value in life? For example: is it as important as secular school? Is it as important as dance classes or soccer practice? Is it as important as that really important game next Sunday? Is it as important as the homework that was put off until the last minute? Is it as important as the lure of good fishing? Is it as important as another hour of sleep to make up for last night’s party? Sadly, in too many of our churches today the answer is no, “its not really that important.” Yet, the single most important factor for insuring a life equipped to handle the ups and downs of this world, with its challenges to our security, our health, or our happiness is a solid faith. And, that is acquired most naturally while we are still young by learn-
ing the stories and principles of our tradition. Whether wealthy, middle class, or poor, whether healthy or sick, those with a strong faith endure and even prosper better than those who have not learned the ways of faith. This has been supported by more than a few research studies. We are blessed here at Ramona United Methodist Church to have a wonderfully dedicated team of people ready, willing, and able to give guidance and instruction to our young people. Each week, they spend their own time preparing for Sunday morning classes with the children and youth. They are a dedicated group that believes that when young people learn the stories and practice of Christianity they will grow into spiritually stronger and more balanced adults. They believe that what they are offering is important enough for them to dedicate a significant amount of their time to make it possible for others to benefit. They know that children and youth who learn and practice their faith from an early age are more likely to live healthier, more faith-filled lives than children and youth who don’t have these advantages.