Excite Kids Ministry

Noah Matthew McCarrick

2008-08-19T18:24:00.002-05:00

Born August 18th at 6:47pm weighing in at 7lbs 5oz and 20.5 inches long.

New Nursery Schedule

2008-06-18T14:41:00.002-05:00

The nursery schedule for July and August is available here:

July-August Nursery Schedule

Father's Day

2008-06-10T10:18:00.001-05:00

Don't forget this Sunday is Father's Day!!!!

Bosnia Fundraiser

2008-06-10T10:07:00.002-05:00

The Children's Ministry will be doing a coin drive to help raise money for our team going to Bosnia. So please empty your couches, wallets and cars and bring your spare change to church for the next 2 Sundays! The team will be using this money to buy supplies for the classrooms in Bosnia. This is such a great way to get your whole family involved in missions. Krista Thorp will be speaking to the classes over the next few weeks and showing them pictures and teaching the kids about the communities in which the team will be serving. So DON'T miss! :)

2008-06-07T12:38:00.003-05:00

Wow...so I get on here today and see that nothing has been posted since May....sorry about that. But there's really nothing going on at the moment but there will be soon! So please keep checking for updates.

New Nursery Schedule

2008-05-01T13:32:00.003-05:00

The new nursery schedule is available here:

May-June 08 Nursery Schedule

Mother's Day Event at The Crux

2008-04-21T18:47:00.003-05:00

When: Saturday May 10th at 12:00pm

There will be food, games, prizes, special quests, music and, oh...did I say prizes?!

You can win our first ever Summer Family Excursion prize which includes tickets to a MLB game, amusement parks like Six Flags, Kings Island and much more!!

There will also be tons of other give-aways just for moms!

So come and enjoy a day a fun in honor of our mother's and grandmother's!

Out with the old and in with the CLEAN!

2008-04-19T13:18:00.000-05:00

Saturday April 26th we will be meeting at the Crux to do some sprucing up inside and out! If you are able to help please email kristen@cruxministries.org. There will be a lot of work but the good part is spending time together...I'm trying to look on the bright side! :)

Hope to see you all there!

Chelle

Mother's Day Event!

2008-04-09T18:19:00.001-05:00

May 10th at the Crux.

More details to come!!

Sadie Grace Patterson

2008-03-21T11:06:00.002-05:00

Sadie arrived by c-section yesterday! Denny and Sara and Trinity are all doing great and are loving the weather in Arizona... :( They are missed!

2008-03-13T10:39:00.000-05:00

Cade Michael Sayer

2008-02-26T11:53:00.001-05:00

Congrats Jason and Holly! Baby Cade arrived yesterday!! He's 9 lbs 3 oz and 21 inches long!

Baby Cade

2008-02-26T11:51:00.004-05:00

Baby Cade

2008-02-26T11:49:00.001-05:00

March-April Nursery Schedule

2008-02-21T14:09:00.001-05:00

Here's the nursery schedule for March & April.

Upcoming Events

2008-02-17T17:22:00.002-05:00

February 24th Rhythm (first official downtown service) Indianapolis Christian School

February 29th Crux On Location at Joe's Grille (96th Street)

March 2nd Baby Dedication (email kristen@cruxministries.org if you are interested)

March 22nd Crux Family Worship Celebration (1:00pm at The Crux)

March 23rd Easter Sunday

March 29th Spiritual DNA Retreat 10 AM-2 PM (Child care provided)

2008-02-14T18:29:00.000-05:00

Kenyan children pray for their country, ask for rain -- and it pours

2008-02-12T10:28:00.000-05:00

To read the article that goes with this picture click on Kenyan Children Pray on the right hand side under Articles.

Attention Moms, Grandma's and Teachers

2008-02-11T18:04:00.001-05:00

Dear friends & family,

You are invited to an Usborne Books Show to explore the world of Usborne Books. There are over 1300 bright, colorful and fun titles covering activities, puzzles and a wide range of subjects for children of all ages.

If you have never been to an Usborne Books show you are in for a treat! If you are familiar with Usborne please join us to see the NEW January TITLES.

This is the PERFECT time to choose books, activity sets, and more for your Easter basket treats. It is always a good time to shop for new babies, birthdays, teaching, and more!

Usborne Books - the books kids love to read!

Hosted by: Kelli Moore

When: Monday February 18th
Time: 7:00pm
Place: 14477 Lansing Place
Fishers, IN 46038

Preview the online catalog OR order if you cannot attend: http://www.ubah.com/HOS106828
For anyone that orders online from this link Kelli will get credit towards her show. Also, all orders are shipped directly to you which is perfect for anyone that is out of town.

***RSVPs are greatly appreciated for snacks/drinks and so we know who to watch for. :-)****

Everyone is welcome, so invite a friend.

It's a rewarding experience when a child opens a book and discovers the magic of reading.

Hope to see you on Monday Feb. 18th!!

Jennifer Jackson
Usborne Book Consultant
email: JenniferJ@myubah.com
website: www.ubah.com/S2639
phone: 317.361.7251
Have a Blessed Day!

Hallway Remodeling

2008-02-09T20:23:00.000-05:00

Over the next month or so we will be remodeling the Excite Kids hallway. Not the classorooms, just the hallway. This will consist of repainting the walls, tearing up the carpet and staining it (similar to the lobby). If you have any ideas for me or you want to volunteer your services please let me know. :)

Chelle

Holly Sayers Baby Shower!

2008-01-17T18:17:00.000-05:00

It's a boy! We will be celebrating with Holly on Sunday January 27th at 3:00pm at The Crux. Jason and Holly are registered at Babies R' Us.

Service Time Change

2008-01-17T18:15:00.000-05:00

Starting Feb. 3rd we will be meeting at 9:30 and 11:00.

Children's Ministry Conference

2008-01-16T11:17:00.000-05:00

Anyone interested in attending this with some of our children's ministry staff please email me ASAP chelle@cruxministries.org. For more information check out the link to the right under Leader Stuff called Orange Conference 2008.

Family Worship

2008-01-14T11:35:00.000-05:00

This is something we will be doing about 4 times this year with Discovery Cove. Stay tuned for more details. :)

Madison Grace Wickard

2008-01-11T10:04:00.000-05:00

Madison was born on Monday January 7th weighing in at exactly 7lbs. Even though Tim and Andrea are no longer at The Crux, they will always be a part of our family so we wish them all the best. To see more pictures of Madison, please check out www.shellyvalentine.blogspot.com

Claire...again!

2008-01-11T09:59:00.000-05:00

Our First baby Girl!

2008-01-11T09:51:00.001-05:00

Ok so it has been a long time since the Crux has seen a baby girl! :) So here is another priceless picture of Claire being loved on by big brother Gabe! Visit http://www.carpenterpd.blogspot.com/ to see even more amazing pictures!!

Winter Nursery Schedule

2008-01-11T08:25:00.000-05:00

Click below for the schedule for nursery volunteers through the end of February.

Winter Nursery Schedule

Claire Marie Carpenter

2008-01-09T17:19:00.000-05:00

Sorry it took me so long to post a picture! Claire was born on Sunday morning January 6th at 5:39 a.m. She weighed 6 lbs 9 oz. Mel, Carp and brother Gabe are SO excited that she is finally here!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T18:29:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a great Christmas and New Years. I spent the holidays in Orlando for the youth convention and I had an amazing time! I posted some pictures on the Youth website today so take a look when you have some time.

www.cruxyouth.blogspot.com

I missed you all and your kids like crazy so I hope to see you all this Sunday back at The Crux!

Chelle

Schedules

2007-12-20T10:54:00.000-05:00

There will be new schedules posted soon. If you are new the The Crux and would like to be a part of this team, ask for more information on Sunday at the kids check-in table.

New Year, New Ideas

2007-12-18T16:28:00.001-05:00

This is about the time I ask all of you for your feedback on our kids ministry. I want you to be open and honest b/c we need to know what we are doing that works and what we need to do better. Also-if you have some ideas/suggestions for us for the upcoming year feel free to include those too.

Please email me at chelle@cruxministries.org with your thoughts.

No Service Reminder

2007-12-18T16:17:00.000-05:00

We will NOT be having service at The Crux on December 30th. This is because we want to give you more time to spend with your families and also to give our volunteers a break. We will see you all back on January 6th. Have a wonderful Christmas!

The Golden Compass

2007-12-07T12:03:00.000-05:00

A lot of you have been asking me whether or not you should take your kids to this movie...and well having not seen it I am not sure how to answer your questions. I do have some thoughts though. :) I have read many reviews that say this movie has an extremely atheist point of view. Now, most of you know that I am not about shielding our kids from things like this. I am however 100% for guiding them through. I would ask that you, as parents, use your own judgement on whether or not to allow your kids to see it. I would definitely suggest that if you do let your child go see it, that you go with them. After the movie there may be a lot of questions and it will help if you know what they're talking about. This way they are exposed to other beliefs in a safe and controllable environment.

Chelle

Christmas 2007

2007-11-21T12:16:00.000-05:00

Come Christmas caroling with the kids on Sunday December 16th at 6:00pm. We will meet at The Crux at 5:45 and caravan over to Carmel Care Center.

Advent Conspiracy

2007-11-15T12:44:00.001-05:00

Watch for ways you can get your kids involved. Our kids ministry team has some possible events coming soon...stay tuned for details.

http://www.adventconspiracyindy.com/

Halloween at the Mitchell's

2007-11-02T10:12:00.001-05:00

Halloween at the Moore's

2007-11-02T10:02:00.001-05:00

2007-11-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

Halloween Backyard Bashes

2007-10-22T09:25:00.000-05:00

Spend Halloween night with friends and neighbors. Look for a Backyard Bash closest to you!

Pastor Appreciation

2007-10-21T15:54:00.000-05:00

Don't forget that this month is Pastor Appreciation Month. You see what happens on Sundays but there's a lot that goes on behind the scenes at The Crux to make our church community what it is. Daron and Ryan put everything they have into not only making this an exciting environment but also a place where people feel welcome and loved. They sacrifice time with their wives and kids to make sure your needs are met because God asks them to simply love people, so love them back in your own way. Send them a card, take them to dinner, drop off some goodies for them to enjoy as a family or anything else you can come up with.

*If you want to make them something you need to know that Pastor Daron's youngest son, Ty is allergic to MILK, EGGS and PEANUTS. So please make sure anything you make doesn't include those ingredients.

If you have questions please email Chelle Menke at chelle@cruxministries.org

Luke Douglas Berry

2007-10-16T11:23:00.000-05:00

Born October 14th at 2:10 am 8 lbs 19 1/2 inches

2007-10-10T19:56:00.000-05:00

For Updates on the Berry's or to leave them a message just copy and paste this link in your address bar.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/danshelleyberry

Jason was a part of The Crux since almost the beginning and Josh and Misti still play a very active role here. Please take a minute and show them your support. Even if you don't know them, feel free to write out a prayer for them and post it on the blog.

Thanks,

Chelle

Allergy Alert

2007-10-02T08:04:00.000-05:00

If your child has ANY sort of allergies PLEASE let us know ASAP! We will be posting signs in all the classrooms so that the teacher/caregiver will know what your child can and cannot have! We strive to make our classrooms as safe as possible but we cannot do that if we don't have all the information.

You can email your child's name and allergies to chelle@cruxministries.org or stop by the check-in table on Sunday morning.

Thank you!

Volunteers Needed!

2007-10-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

If you are interested in helping in the kids ministry or just want more information about what we do please feel free to email chelle@cruxministries.org.

We need people in all areas of our ministry...from leading worship to teaching a class to administrative work.

Baby Updates

2007-09-28T14:58:00.000-05:00

-Jeremy and Mel Carpenter are expecting a little girl in 2008.

-Tim and Andrea Wickard (no longer attend The Crux but are pursuing ministry opportunities closer to their community) are also expecting a baby girl.

-Denny and Sara Patterson (moved to Arizona but are still a part of The Crux family)new baby due in March.

-Jason and Amber Berry (now pastoring at Crossroads Church in Atlanta GA) Baby Luke Douglas Berry is due October 7th!

GO COLTS!

2007-09-28T14:47:00.000-05:00

Lydia, Brynna and Cole! Now that's comittment!

Attention Parents and Volunteers

2007-09-26T12:55:00.000-05:00

There is a Spiritual DNA class on October 20th at The Crux. There will be childcare provided. PLEASE sign up ahead of time especially if you are bringing your kids so we know how many to expect.

Everyone that is a part of this ministry is required to go through this class so now's your chance.

RSVP to kristen@cruxministries.org

Thanks!

~Chelle

Volunteer Interview with Kim Earlewine

2007-09-25T14:09:00.000-05:00

1. How long have you been serving in the children's ministry at the Crux? 3 years.

2. What is the one thing that makes you so passionate about this specific group of kids? Each one of them has so much potential to love Jesus and change the world. The fact that I have a role in pointing them towards Him is humbling and inspiring.

3. Why did you decide to get involved with this ministry? Honestly, I can’t remember. I think I got pregnant and thought I should probably get in some practice…

4. Where would you like to see this ministry in 1 year? More teachers, more kids, somehow making parents more involved in integrating the lessons in daily life throughout the week, a regular corporate worship experience for the little ones. Oh, and a program (Christmas or Spring or whatever) Let’s show them off. These kids are amazing!

5. What are some of the biggest challenges for you in working with this group of kids? 3 year old boys! Ha! Just kidding, I love those boys with my whole heart and hope to have one someday. J Seriously, the energy and zest for life present at that age (both boys and girls) is such an opportunity and a gift, but it can definitely be challenging if the ratio of teachers to kids is disproportionate on any given Sunday. Why does it always seems to happen on the Sunday when the service goes long!

Kid Talk

2007-09-25T11:30:00.000-05:00

Most of you know that a few weeks ago one of our previous pastors' parents were in a very seriuos car accident. Pastor Jason's dad is ok for the most part, but Jason's mom is still in a coma with very seriuos injuries.

This past Sunday I was talking to some of our preschoolers and Cole Earlewine asked about Pastor Jason's mommy. As I tried to find the words to explain to them this horrible event, all I found myself able to say was, "Jason's mommy is sleeping and we don't know when she is going to wake up". Ashton Bradley replied with, "you mean like sleeping beauty?" I thought...wow, I guess that is a good way to explain it...then one of the other kids looked at me in ALL seriousness and said, "well why doesn't his dad just kiss her already?"

It was in that moment that I realized that their faith makes a tragedy like this seem so easy to fix. I told them that even though it's kind of like sleeping beauty, Jason's daddy can't fix it, none of us can. God is the only one who can wake up Jason's mommy and He will do it when He is ready for her to wake up. I told them all we can do is pray.

How amazing is it that 3, 4, and 5 year old kids understood that whole conversation.

~Chelle

Jeremy Morris

2007-09-25T11:22:00.000-05:00

This Sunday Jeremy Morris will be getting baptized! He is in 4th grade and an excellent Banjo player! Please come to church this Sunday and support him as he takes the next step in his faith.

New Curriculum

2007-09-03T19:05:00.000-05:00

Our Preschool and Elementary kids will be starting new curriculum soon. It is called Hands On Bible Curriculum from Group Publishing. It is extremely interactive and fun. Your kids will be exploring the Bible in ways you never thought possible.

Fall Nursery Schedule

2007-08-27T19:24:00.000-05:00

The Fall Nursery Schedule is out! You can access it here or at the link on the right.

Pictures

2007-08-23T11:46:00.000-05:00

If you have any pictures of your kids or family that you would like to share feel free to email them to me. We would all love to see what you have been up to this summer.

chelle@cruxministries.org

Donations Reminder

2007-08-06T11:27:00.001-05:00

We have reached that time of year where we are running low on supplies. Since we are a small church...on a tight budget...If you would like to donate items to the Children's Ministry here is a list of things we need.

-construction paper
-kids scissors
-kleenex
-glue bottles
-yarn (any color)
-wet wipes
-antibacterial hand gel
-poster board (white)
-cotton balls
-glitter
-pipe cleaners
-plastic grocery bags

Beach House VBS 2007

2007-08-06T11:25:00.000-05:00

VBS

2007-08-06T11:23:00.000-05:00

VBS

2007-08-06T11:22:00.000-05:00

VBS

2007-08-06T11:15:00.000-05:00

VBS Memory Verses

2007-07-19T20:20:00.001-05:00

Wednesday: Story-Joseph (Genesis 37)

Psalm 23:6

"Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

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Thursday: Story-Ruth and Naomi (Ruth 1)

Proverbs 17:17

"A friend loves at all times"

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Friday: Story-Mary, Jesus and Joseph (Matthew 1)

Romans 15:7

"Accept each other just like Christ accepted you"

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Saturday: The Prodigal Son (Luke 15)

Luke 6:37

"Forgive, and you will be forgiven"

Donations

2007-07-17T11:47:00.000-05:00

Parent Workshops

2007-07-15T17:43:00.000-05:00

If you don't have plans July 18-20...then you need to come to The Crux and sit in on our FREE Parent Workshops. They will be taking place in the evenings from 7:30-8:15 pm. The workshops are a part of Vacation Bible School but you are welcome to come even if you don't have a child attending VBS.

Wednesday: Investing for Your Family's Future. Adam Renbarger of Edward Jones Investments.

Thursday: Fitness and Nutrition for Your Family. Dawn Castro. Fitness Instructor at Indiana Wesleyan University.

Friday: Integrating Music in Your Childs Life. Rachel Sampson from Sonata Music Studio

Family Picnic

2007-07-14T16:43:00.000-05:00

What: Eat lunch, swim and play games

When: Saturday July 28th at 1:00 pm

Where: The Bartrom's Home
2802 E. 186th Street
Westfield, IN 46074

Why: To spend a relaxing afternoon together, let the kids make new friends, and parents can connect with other parents

**Please bring a side dish to share!

You know Summer is here when...

2007-07-05T18:19:00.000-05:00

you see Crux kids hangin out by the pool...

Vacation Bible School

2007-06-29T15:24:00.000-05:00

The Crux will be having Vacation Bible School from Wednesday, July 18th to Saturday, July 21st. It is for children from 3 years old to fourth grade. Below is a link to the registration form.

VBS Registration Form

Summer Toddler Schedule

2007-06-29T15:09:00.000-05:00

The Summer Toddler Schedule is updated through the end of August.

Summer Toddler Schedule

Summer Infant Schedule

2007-06-17T20:02:00.000-05:00

The Summer Infant Schedule has been updated through the end of August.

Summer Infant Schedule

Service on Monument Circle!

2007-06-14T14:18:00.000-05:00

Parents! Here is a list of items to bring to help you and your family get through Sunday morning service on the circle:

-Sunscreen
-Water
-Strollers
-Snacks

NOW, here is a list of items that our Children's Ministry team will be bringing to help make your experience less chaotic:

-Coral baby gates (I am not sure what the technical term is but they help "coral" the kids in one location.)
-Extra Sunscreen
-Extra Water
-Sidewalk chalk
-First Aid Kit

Ok here's the deal...Sunday will be crazy and fun but I know it might seem like it will be stressful if you have kids...especially if you have more than one and you are alone (like our wonderful Pastor's wives). So if you are nervous AT ALL please call me and we will pair you with another adult that can help you with your kids or I can try to help answer questions to put your mind at ease. I am nervous too about all of our beautiful children being down there out in the open BUT I PROMISE that myself and my team will do EVERYTHING to make you feel comfortable.

The kids will get to see our city in a different light and it is going to be so exciting! As a church that is so unique and always trying to DO things outside the box, it does present some obstacles to the children's ministry BUT trust that we are well equipped to handle anything...we met in a movie theater for a year...I think that says it all! :D

Here is the game plan...

-Church starts promptly at 10:00 am
-Service will last ONE hour!
-Afterwards there are optional outreach projects that are family friendly. So listen for Daron to announce those!
-If the outreach things are not up your alley...find a friend and go to lunch downtown!
-If the outreach things are not up your alley...find a friend and go to lunch downtown!
-Most of all...don't forget to take in this experience!!! We live in a city that is full of hurting people...show them how we love as a community of believers!

Thank you for you flexibility and support! See you Sunday!

Call me for questions (ANYTIME) 317-385-7642

Father's Day Pictures

2007-06-04T14:13:00.000-05:00

THIS Sunday June 10th, during service, Carpenter Photography will be taking pictures of the kids for Father's Day. It will be a similar set-up as Mother's Day. The pictures will be ready for pick-up on Sunday June 24th.

Changes are coming...SOON

2007-05-30T14:51:00.000-05:00

Don't forget the service times at The Crux have changed! We now have a 9:00 am and an 11:00 am service. There will be stuff for kids during both times! I hope that you will all join us this week as it is our first week experiencing these new changes and it will be an exciting event to be a part of!

Mother's Day Pictures are Ready!

2007-05-24T12:19:00.000-05:00

There will be a table set up inside the Daycare entrance THIS Sunday for you to pick them up. We ask that you have your payment ready at that time!

Volunteer Breakfast Reminder

2007-05-24T12:16:00.001-05:00

When: Saturday June 2nd from 9:30-11:30 AM

Where: The Crux.

There WILL be child care available if you need it.

Announcement

2007-05-24T12:12:00.000-05:00

THIS Sunday May 27th, is our LAST evening service and there will be no childcare. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Also-June 3rd will be our FIRST Sunday with 2 morning services. The times are 9:00 am and 11:00 am.

Thank you for your flexibility!

Baby Album Workshop

2007-05-19T11:52:00.000-05:00

Host: Tiffany Johnsen

Saturday, June 23 10:00AM at my house (you’ll need to call for directions)

Whether you are expecting, just had a baby, or never got around to doing your child’s baby album, then this is the class for you!! We will be predecorating an album for your baby’s first year. Everything will be ready for you to decorate 30 pages at the workshop, so that all that has to be added are the pictures! The workshop price includes your choice of Package #1 or Package #2 as described below:

Package #1 Our traditional book cloth album cover in soft pink or soft blue…..$90
Package #2 Our new leather-look album cover in a pale pink or pale blue…...$105

Each package includes:
n 12x12 album (book cloth or leather-look)
n 12x12 page refills
n 12x12 page protectors
n baby album kit (journaling boxes, paper, and some stickers)
n ABC stickers and extra stickers
n tape
n Creative Memories pen

Please RSVP (tiff_hearts@hotmail.com or 317-902-8015) by June 16, so I can order everything needed and make sure I have enough room.

If you are no able to make the class but are interested in making a baby album, I would be glad to meet with you and help you one on one.

Service Updates

2007-05-18T10:53:00.001-05:00

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!!

*Sunday May 27th will be the LAST evening service at The Crux.

*Sunday June 3rd will be the FIRST Sunday with TWO A.M. services. The times will be 9:00 and 11:00. The Children's Ministry WILL be operating for both services. I know this will mess up the new schedules we just made so please be patient with us as we attempt to find the best solution for everyone. We are trying to serve our families better with the 2 morning services because our Children's Ministry is growing SO fast and our families are a top priority. We are working hard to make your Sundays and your experience at The Crux as rewarding and enjoyable as possible.

*Sunday June 17th we will NOT be meeting at The Crux. We will be having ONE morning service DOWNTOWN as part of our Experience Indy Missions Trip. This will be a fun and challenging experience for all of our families. The Children's Ministry will NOT be doing anything that morning so bring strollers! We plan to bring some "coral" gates to set up for the kids but PARENTS will be responsible for watching their own kids during this service. The gates will be there for backup in case your kids get restless in the strollers. Treat this like you would any other family outing but we will do our best to help you as much as possible.

Baby Jackson

2007-05-18T05:42:00.001-05:00

Jackson Wayne Moore
7 pds 8 oz
20 inches long.

May-August 2007 Nursery Schedules

2007-05-17T12:02:00.000-05:00

Here are the Summer schedules for both infants and toddlers. In the future, if you're looking for them they'll be to the right with the rest of the links.

Summer Infant Schedule
Summer Toddler Schedule

Baby Jackson Wayne Moore

2007-05-17T05:57:00.000-05:00

Brent and Lesleigh Moore are the proud parents of child #3. Baby Jackson was born yesterday at 4:45 p.m. (Wednesday). He weighed a big 7 pds 8 oz...and is 20 inches long.

I will post pictures as soon as I can.

Autism Speaks

2007-05-14T06:16:00.000-05:00

Dear family and friends,

As you may or may not know ... my 7 year old nephew Lawson has Autism. He is an amazingly bright, friendly, clever and challenging little guy.

My brother and his wife help a lot with events to raise money for autism research. The organization "Autism Speaks" created a music video of the Five for Fighting song, "World", which features images of autistic children and their families.

There are some interesting facts about Autism and the band is donating $0.49 per hit on the site to Autism Speaks for research.I know every little bit helps ... so if you have a minute ... please click on the link below and feel free to pass this along to any others that you think would take a look.

Thanks!

Mary Conrad

You can find this video link on the right side of this page under "links"

~Chelle

Beach House

2007-05-13T15:57:00.000-05:00

VBS:July 18-22nd

Don't miss your chance to come to The Crux for our first ever Vacation Bible School. We will be offering Parent seminars, snacks, coffee, an engaging worship time with the whole family and a time to connect with new people!

The kids will be studying Bible stories based on family values, playing games, making amazing crafts and meeting new friends!

If you would like to be a part of this please email me ASAP!

chelle_menke@hotmail.com

Registration forms will be available soon!

Mother's Day Pictures THIS Sunday Morning!!

2007-05-09T05:56:00.000-05:00

Just for Moms... Jeremy and Mel Carpenter will be providing a special surprise photo for all of the moms with children ages junior high and younger during the morning service on Sunday. The Crux will be providing each mom with a complimentary proof of the surprise. Jeremy and Mel will also have a table set up after church if you would like to purchase an additional photo. Watch for details Sunday morning. If you have older children, you will also have the opportunity to have your photo taken with your child(ren) following the service. These photos will be taken just outside the main doors.

Baby Liam's first picture!

2007-05-08T13:26:00.000-05:00

7 lbs 6 oz

20 inches

8:55 am may 7th

Liam is out of the NICU and is in the room with his family!

Introducing Baby Foster!

2007-05-08T11:33:00.000-05:00

Proud Parents: Chris and Melanie Foster

Phoebe Isla Foster

born: April 28th, 12:28pm

7 lbs 12 oz

21 inches long

Baby Brinson!

2007-05-08T11:19:00.000-05:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO Pastor Ryan and Dawn -

on the birth of their baby boy on Monday May 7th!!!!

Liam Joel Brinson arrived today at 8:55AM, weighing 7lbs 6oz and 20" long.

Dawn looks fabulous and Ryan is so excited and as for Luke, he will hopefully get to meet his little brother today! Baby Liam was in the NICU last night when I was there and Dawn was still recovering from surgery so Dawn and Ryan wanted to wait until they could all be there to see Luke's reaction. Please be praying for them this week!

I will try to keep posting updates and get a picture ASAP!

The Purpose of Passion

2007-05-01T20:43:00.000-05:00

The purpose of passion is simple. You take something you are passionate about...and you find it's unique purpose for exsisting. Well my passion is children and its purpose is to teach them about Christ and love them they way Christ expects us to so they can share His love with others.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like if every person in the church took one kid and just poured Christ into them? Think about it...every day you have one little person that you get to love unconditionally. Without judgement and without disbelieve...one kid that hangs on your every word. You smother them with hugs and kisses and gifts and tell them Bible stories and teach them about salvation and about the God we serve. It doesn't matter how old they are. You can show God to an infant simply by loving them and treating them with compassion and gentleness. Same goes for a teenager. Sometimes with them...loving them means telling them NO because you know what they are about to do could impact their life in a way they might not be aware of or prepared to handle. There are so many ways to share Christ and with only one kid, that would be pretty easy right?

Well unfortunately we only see our kids on Sundays. And they don't come one at a time...they come 50 at a time. And we don't get to pour into them one on one because each of us is responsible for around 10-15 kids. And we don't get them for a whole day even...we get them for about 2 hours. Do those sound like good odds to you? 1-2 Adults per 10 kids, for 2 hours, 1 day a week. Either we have to be Super Christians or we have to learn to ask for help!

Most of you reading this are parents, some are volunteers and some are both. I want you to constantly ask yourself..."Am I doing everything I can to make sure my child or A child knows Christ?"

Our children's ministry team works very hard to put together information and activities for Sundays that will hopefully show the kids how to be Christ-like and I trust that as parents and volunteers you are doing the best you can during the week or during your serving time on Sundays to keep the same fire burning. But what if we truly partnered together to create this AMAZING experience? Like I said, our ministry team is doing it's best but the kids deserve even better than we can give them. They deserve an entire church community surrounding them and showing their love and support.

I have this book called Transforming Children Into Spiritual Champions; and inside it says, "A child's moral development is set by the age of 9." That makes me sad! I start thinking about how many kids we may have missed already and now how much harder it will be to reach them and change their way of thinking. It also makes me sad to think about all the kids we might miss because we have to spend so much time focusing on the ones we thought we "lost".

I guess what I am asking is to consider where the children of the Crux lay on your list of priorities. The same book I quoted above also says that, "children respond best to other children". Well if we can bond together and reach our 50 kids, think about how many kids our kids could reach! I mean have you met our kids? They are some of the most amazing human beings I have ever seen! They have incredible hearts and they are bright and passionate and eager to learn and I see some that already feel the burden of the lost. I feel it is our calling as Christians to teach them and send them out into the world. This is a movement that will happen with or without your help because I WILL equip and empower these kids to fulfill their calling. But let's be honest...it would be a lot easier if I had the help and support of everyone in our church community.

So if you would like to be a part of this movement then all you have to do is say so and our ministry team will make it happen. We have so many ways for you to volunteer that would go along with a gift or a passion you already possess. Please pray about it and if you are interested then email me ASAP so you don't miss out on one of the most rewarding adventures of your life!

~Chelle

chelle_menke@hotmail.com

New Schedule Coming Soon!

2007-05-01T20:37:00.000-05:00

We will have a new nursery schedule coming up this week. As most of you know, we ask that all parents take an active role in the children's ministry on Sundays. We have, on average, 50 kids a week and so we ask for your help to give them the best experience possible. So if you are not on the list and would like to be let me know and we can find the perfect fit for you! You don't have to serve in the class that your child is in, you can serve in any area that you feel comfortable. I try very hard to match your passion/talents with our purpose as a ministry.

~Chelle

Volunteer Interview: Cindy Bell (K-4th grade teacher)

2007-04-28T13:00:00.000-05:00

1. How long have you been serving in the children's ministry at the Crux?
I started when we were in the theater.

2. What is the one thing that makes you so passionate about this specific group of kids?
I love working with children. They energize me with their inquisitive nature.

3. Why did you decide to get involved with this ministry?
For 2 reasons: 1) I was fortunate to have 2 godly grandmothers who were both involved in the children’s ministries at their churches. They were wonderful role-models for me and exemplified the importance of loving every child. I realize that not every child comes from a stable environment. Sometimes a child just needs that one person who is consistently there for them and who shows them what it is like to be loved by God. I count it a privilege to be used by God in this way. I also feel it is a way I can honor my grandmothers for the incredible impact they had on my life. 2) The second reason is to maintain balance in my life. Sometimes I get so wrapped up in advancing my degree and working on research and taking care of dying children…that I desperately just need to be around healthy children. Working with healthy children provides a balance for me.

4. Where would you like to see this ministry in 1 year?
Ah this is a tough question. Because one is always inclined to say we want more kids…more numbers. Although that would be nice, I would especially like to see our kids . among the students and also between the students and adults that are involved in our ministry. I would love to see their relationships deepen with Christ as they learn more and grow closer to Him.

5. What are some of the biggest challenges for you in working with this class?
Space…and the wide variety of ages in one classroom. I look forward to the day we will have enough children and enough workers to break into smaller, more age appropriate groups.

Kid Talk from Julie Earlewine

2007-04-28T12:58:00.000-05:00

I never really realized how much Cole was really learning during Sunday school in the nursery. Honestly, I thought all he did was run around like a wild child, play, and eat snacks. Until a few weeks ago when I decided to ask him if he had learned a memory verse from Lesleigh at church. He told me, in his very passionate tone, " Yes Mom! Genesis 1:1 God cweated he heabens and the earbth" Cole translation. He was so proud to recite it to me and I was so moved as a mom to realize that my little sponge of a two year old can grasp lots more than me in his fresh brain. So I need to first of all thank the children worker's for investing in my kid and secondly, start doing it myself. This week...Noah walked with God, Gen. 6:9 and Cole will recite it, but he still prefers Gen. 1:1.

The Crux Crusaders

2007-04-28T12:55:00.000-05:00

Have you heard the latest? Our K-4th grade kids have come together as a community. The Crux Crusaders will be the new identity for this group of students. We are so excited to be bringing this group together and are empowered by the truth of Christ. There is such hope in the hearts and minds of these students. They are eager to go forward as a community centered around finding and seeking God. They have chosen Jeremiah 29:13 to be their guide on being a light in the lives of kids all over the world.

~Rachel Sampson

I have been with most of these kids for over half of their life. I have seen them bond with each other, pray together, worship together, and experience God together. I have been with some of them when they accepted Jesus into their hearts and I have witnessed some of them get baptized. The love and admiration I have for this group of kids is stronger than I ever thought possible. I started out doing an impromptu lesson with this age group about 3 years ago because their teacher had something come up last minute. The good news is they stuck with me. Since they are the oldest group of kids they have come in last when it came to receiving classrooms, materials and teachers because they were more flexible. We will not let that happen anymore! They are an amazing group of kids and they have so many dreams for what they want to become together as a part of the Crux community.

~Chelle Menke

Parking

2007-04-26T13:02:00.000-05:00

Parents,

Don't forget to park on the side of the Daycare entrance on Sunday mornings. You will get a better spot and you won't have to fight the crowd in the lobby just to get your kids checked in!

The way The Crux does cooking...

2007-04-26T08:43:00.000-05:00

We still have some cookbooks left. They are only $10.00. All the recipes were contributed by members or family of members of the Crux community.

Mother's Day Gift

2007-04-25T14:03:00.001-05:00

Higher Grounds Coffee House and Tall Pines Pottery Studio are helping kids create the perfect Mother's Day gift! Choose from 2 different Mug Styles (age appropriate) and let your kids personalize them just for Mom!

Date: Sunday April 29th from 200-4:00PM

Where: Higher Grounds Coffee House (Olio and 116th in front of Kroger)
All supplies will be onsite including mugs, paints, and tools!

Cost: $20/child

How it works: e-mail Lisa Mitchell to confirm your registration at lmitchell1@insightbb.com. All supplies will be onsite, set up, and ready for your child to begin his/her masterpiece! After painting the mugs, they will be taken back to the studio to be fired in the kiln and then will be available for pick up the week of Mother's Day at Higher Grounds.

This is a great idea for kids of any age. Even infants and toddlers can get in on the action with a "handprint" mug just for Mom. The Tall Pines Pottery owner will be on hand to lend her expertise.

Space is limited so sign up soon! You can call Lisa at 842-2233 with any questions.

Books and Movies

2007-04-22T18:12:00.000-05:00

We are in need of movies and books in all of our classrooms! If you have some gently used or new that you would like to donate please bring them to the Kids Check-In table.

Thank you!

for more details please email Chelle at chelle_menke@hotmail.com

Vacation Bible School (VBS)

2007-04-22T17:55:00.000-05:00

Theme: Beach House

*The focus is on families! There will be activities for kids AND workshops for parents!

When: July 18th-22nd

Where: The Crux
9030 E. 96th Street
Fishers, IN 46037

Why should you come? Because you have NEVER seen The Crux do VBS Crux style and this is something you're NOT going to want to miss!

Welcome to The Crux!

2007-04-22T17:35:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the Excite Kids Ministry at the Crux!

Here at the Crux, we want you to know how
much we value your child. We believe that each one
is unique according to the gifts that God has given
them and the people that impact their lives. All of our volunteers are made up of members of the church community. They receive CPR and First Aid certification and undergo background checks. We do our best to insure your child’s safety while visiting our church so that you can relax and experience God! I hope you find your child’s visit with us to be
safe, comfortable and fun.

~Chelle Menke
Children’s Ministry Director

“Raise up a child in the way he should go, and when he is older he will not stray from it.” Proverbs 22:6

Excite Kids Mission Statement:
*To share the love and character of Christ to children through our actions and our teachings.

Leadership Team:
*Children's Ministry Director-Chelle Menke
*Infant Nursery Coordinator-Christi May
*Toddler Class Coordinator-Katie Lucas
*Preschool Coordinator-Lesleigh Moore
*Elementary Coordinator-Rachel Sampson
*Youth Director-Mark Moore

If you have questions or concerns please contact Chelle Menke at chelle_menke@hotmail.com.