Viki Rehkugler, Robin Laisure, Shannon Gordon and Janet Marten
During the recent celebration of Children’s Sabbath Service at Garden City Community Church (GCCC), the Lego structures created by some of the children out of loose Lego pieces were put on the altar. Finn, Lucas, Ryan and Wexford put together their interpretations as answers to the questions: What (and why) they were building Lego Structures? Their answers were powerful reminders of what it means to build a life of faith:
We’re building a Community Piece by Piece
Building Blocks for Humanity
God’s Love holds us together
Doors that are Welcoming
Kingdom of Kindness
Making Connections
The Structure of God
Everyone deserves some fun
Building the Kingdom of God
Building Up of People
The Children’s Sabbath Service was a time of prayer, education, and action, focused on uplifting children and promoting justice on their behalf. Shannen Gordon from UNICEF USA was the guest speaker who emphasized a commitment to the well being of all children, highlighting their stories, rights and needs. In addition to worship, a call to action is awareness of the needs of the children around the World. GCCC collected donations from the UNICEF Trick or Treat boxes, and a large donation box that says “UNICEF,” to collect donations during the weekdays. This was part of UNICEF’s campaign to ensure the world’s most vulnerable children get nutrition, water, protection, education, and health care they need to survive and thrive
Shannen Gordon is the Manager of Operations and Engagement on the Corporate and Civil Society Partnerships team at UNICEF USA. She helps to build and manage relationships with companies and civil society organizations that want to support UNICEF’s mission in reaching vulnerable children with the services they need to survive and thrive. In her work she focuses on helping organizations understand children’s needs, connecting to UNICEF’s work, and finding ways to create the best outcomes for children across the globe. Shannen lives with her family in Valley Stream and has been in the nonprofit sector for over 10 years. During Shannon’s time with the GCCC children, she shared with them UNICEF items, trick or treat boxes, and some candies.
The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) was established in 1946, in the aftermath of World War II. Its mandate was clear: to help children and young people whose lives and futures were at risk – no matter what role their country had played in the war.
This is the DNA of UNICEF. From the ashes of war to the global challenges that affect millions today, its mandate has never wavered. UNICEF works to protect the rights of all children. Whoever they are. Wherever they live. The UNICEF brings over 75 years of field-tested expertise, a network that spans the globe, a passion for innovation, dynamic partnerships, and a commitment to children. For more than 75 years, UNICEF’s mission has evolved with the needs of children around the world. making every dollar count. As UNICEF looks back, it learns from its accomplishments and challenges. To learn more about the UNICEF, visit its website at unicef.org.
The Children’s Sabbath Service, including the invitation of Shannon Gordon was well planned and presented by Robin Boyle Laisure, Janet Martens, and Victoria Rehkugler. Frank Crosio, minister of music, led the choir with meaningful pieces of music.
The community is invited to join the GCCC to witness what God is doing in the life of its church. Sunday worship services are at 10:30 a.m. follow by fellowship gathering.
Whoever you are, wherever you are on your life’s journey, you are welcome at GCCC. It has services, events, and programs for all ages. Its Sunday Worship Service is in-person and live-streamed.
For information on how to attend its services virtually or in person, please contact the church office churchoffice@thegccc.org. To get information regarding its virtual and in-person worship services and programs, visit its website at www.theGCCC.org.
The Garden City Community Church is part of the United Church of Christ. It is an Open and Affirming congregation that welcomes people of all ages, races, gender identities, and sexual orientations to participate in the life of its community. It is located at 245 Stewart Avenue between Whitehall Blvd. and Kensington Road. For more information, email churchoffice@thegccc.org or call (516) 746-1700. You may also visit its website at www.theGCCC.org
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