Submitted by Judy Dirks
The 30th Annual National Observance of Children’s Sabbath celebration will be October 15-17, 2021. A program of the Children’s Defense Fund, it differs from other children’s programs in that it distinctly focuses on urgent problems facing children in our nation, intergenerational participation, action-oriented follow-up, and linking places of worship across traditions nationwide. Support for this observance is part of the United Methodist Women’s Mission Today program and is encouraged by the PNW Conference’s Board of Church and Society.
Churches can adapt the resources to fit their schedule and setting, choosing a date to observe the Children’s Sabbath based upon their worship or education schedule. Bonners Ferry United Methodist Church has traditionally involved youth and children through its worship service and children’s church.
Our Social Principles (Section III. The Social Community ¶162. C) Rights of Children) describes many of the rights and protections that are a part of the Children’s Sabbath information.
More information and free resources to support this observance are available to download at: https://www.childrensdefense.org/childrens-sabbath-celebration/
Judy Dirks serves as Inland District Representative on the Pacific Northwest Conference Board of Church and Society.
