This picture shows some members of the 2002-2003 Rite 13 Class. Hope you will join us!

Our 1st Sunday class, Sept. 21st, was a trip to the Apple Barn, where we picked apples, talked about the Holy Trinity, God’s creation, Adam & Eve, being harvesters for God & went in a tree maze. A lot to cover in a little time! (click on thumbnail for larger picture.)

On Sun., Oct. 5th we had the Pet Blessings at church. After church we went to a petting zoo where we talked about St. Francis & all of God’s creation, how God formed us and the animals in marvelous and sometimes mysterious ways. Ask the kids about the crucifix fish bones! After feeding & petting some of the animals we had treats with our discussion too. (click on thumbnail for larger picture.)

One of the goals of Rite 13 is to celebrate God's gift of manhood and womanhood. The ceremony, which happens shortly after or around the 13th birthday, marks the stages of being an adolescent, a person moving on to being an adult. During this time in a teens life, they may begin to move away from parents and family and form new relationships with their peers. Friends are very important at this time in their lives, which is why we teach the importance of choosing wise, godly and good friends. We also acknowledge and teach that parents are still one of the most important parts of a young person's life. The Rite 13 Service also charges the congregation and young people to take seriously their commitment to these youth. It reminds the parents that we understand the difficulty and demand of raising children, and so we do not charge them with anything, but rather, pray for them too.

Our classes learned a bit about casting nets and being fishers of men and women on Sunday, April 25, 2004 We enjoyed “fish food” snacks and heard some ways TO BE AND NOT TO BE fishers of people. Then we set out for some swimming fun at Lake Lawn Lodge.

We enjoyed the outing to Lake Lawn Lodge, where we swam in the pool & relaxed in the hot tub too. During a break, we also learned how we can “float” with God, asking His help to support us, and enable us to be fishers too. Prayer is like spiritual floating, as we find relaxing refreshment in the Living Water - Jesus. (Click on thumbnail for larger pic.)