Signs of Life Overnight

Dear Students and Parents,

On Friday, January 27, beginning at 6pm with a very brief meeting of all parents and dinner for the students, we are hosting an overnight for all in grades 4-6, along with those who participate in our catechism program. The theme for the evening is "9 ¾". We hope we have your curiosity peaked. Be assured that you will have a playful, challenging, and inspirational evening.

The overnight will be staffed with adult chaperones and high school students. Most of you have come to know that we never share the content of a retreat with anyone, including chaperones. You know that it is our desire to ‘surprise’ you with an agenda that emerges through the use of purposeful questions, participative processes, and working playfully. We will tell you ahead of time that our older ones will be mentoring and leading our younger ones every minute of this 14 hour event.

Please bring with you the permission slip (authorization to participate/medical release/authorization to transport form), a sleeping bag, pillow, toothbrush, a healthy appetite and a good attitude. A recommended donation of $5 per student is suggested; however we do not want anyone missing this event, or any event in our congregation, because of money. One additional request, we are asking that parents kindly and promptly be at the doors (which will be locked) to pick up your student at 8 am.

Our catechism students and parents may be wondering if this is a required event. While it is not required, this invitation comes with our strongest recommendation and encouragement to participate. Originally our plan was to have an overnight for participants in Signs of Life only, however a number of catechism students hearing about the event have asked if they can attend. Our answer to that question is the more the merrier, so you are all invited. Again I will say, I like to have items on your calendar at least 60 days in advance, and I know this is very short notice. However when I hear students asking to come to the church to be a part of an event, I’m always going to say yes to that kind of request.

We need a few minutes with parents before the overnight begins. This 6pm parent meeting is not optional. We need at least one parent present for each child and assure you the meeting will be brief. Please RSVP to bobmachamer@earthlink.net no later than Wednesday, January 25, 2012.

9 ¾ Team