As I noted in part 1 of this series, Spring, 2009, arguably marks the 100th anniversary of both Mother’s Day and Father’s Day—at least as we know them! Both began as grassroots movements initiated by daughters who wanted to honor their parents. Both holidays followed a zig-zag path to nation-wide acceptance. But 1909 was a significant year for both holidays.
Even if you would not ordinarily observe these two events in your church, you may want to consider doing so in this centennial year, using this anniversary to help all your women (whether they are moms or not) and all your men (whether they are dads or not) see the significance of the roles they play as spiritual mentors, teachers, coaches, and role models.
When I Grow Up . . . Populate the board with note cards on which older elementary and high school students finish the sentence: When I grow up, I want to be like . . . Encourage them to name adults in the congregation—parents, teachers, pastors, troop leaders, or people without formal roles but who nonetheless have influenced them. Encourage them to add a sentence or three explaining why they picked that person.
Start collecting comments a few weeks before Mother’s Day and keep adding to the board for several weeks after Father’s Day. You may even want to capture the comments and add them to your congregation’s website or print them in the August newsletter. Make extra note cards available near the display and encourage adults to participate too—naming their “mothers” and “fathers” in the faith.
That’s just one idea. What ideas did this spark for you? Post them as a “Comment” to this blog and let’s see how many we can collect. And do be sure to let us know how they worked for you!
Link here to find Christ-centered, affordable gifts that will help you make Mother’s Day and Father’s Day memorable for your members.
