Part of the memory verse for this quarter
(John 13:34-35) is "Love one another." How do you show love for one another at church? Some congregations find that an "opening time"--when all children meet briefly before
a Gather 'Round session--is a wonderful way to nurture fellowship and love among the different age levels. See if your congregation would like to try this. You might sing along
to the Gather 'Round Music CD, recite the memory verse or a prayer, and hear or act out the Bible story together. Then return to your usual rooms for the rest of the session. You may do this only once or twice a quarter or more frequently.

 

Here's a prayer from Grow that would work well during an opening time:

 

Make us like Jesus

Leader: God, sometimes it's hard to follow you.

All: Make us like Jesus.

Leader: Sometimes it's hard to love others.

All: Make us like Jesus.

Leader: Sometimes it's hard to listen.

All: Make us like Jesus.

Leader: Teach us today.

All: Make us like Jesus.