From festive party dresses to jeans and Christmas sweaters, children from all over the region decked out to come to celebrate the season.
Based on last year’s success, the staff at the Billy Graham Library could not turn down another opportunity to do this.
“We decided it would be a fun thing to do to invite children again to come in and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas with us,” said Diane Wise, Promotions Manager for the Billy Graham Library. “This also gives them an excuse to dress up!”
Children enjoyed treats as they were entertained by the TBA Girls, a local singing group comprised of 14-year-old triplets, Tiffany, Brianna and Amanda. They sang familiar Christmas songs, such as Joy to the World, Let It Snow and Sleigh Ride.
“We just want everyone to have an awesome fun time. We love interacting with all the kids and singing is our passion,” said Tiffany. “Most importantly, we want to put the joy in their hearts by knowing the true meaning of Christmas, that Jesus loves them and that He was born to save us.”
One little girl named Sierra was most excited about the music. “I love to sing, so the music is my favorite part,” she says.
Later, the children were captivated by Christmas puppet shows by Lona Bartlett, of Best of Friends Puppets and Storytelling. One of the shows, “The Package,” was about a bear trying to open a package. Finally, a little bear comes out and gives him a cross, conveying the message that Jesus is the best gift of all.
“I am honored to be here. Children are our best commodity, because they are our future. If we can instill Truth in them while they are young, they will not leave that, said Bartlett. “Being in the creative arts, I want to show people of all ages that you can have an atypical ministry. You don’t have to be on a stage giving a sermon in order to minister to others. There are many ways to do that.”
Most of the parents wanted their children to leave with more than just the complimentary teddy bear. They were hoping for lasting memories and a timeless message.
Michelle Hicks, a parent of one of the participants, came with her daughter’s church group. “I like for the girls get together and do these fun things and see that learning about Jesus can be fun, that it can be an experience.”
Other parents, like Sarah, agree. “I want her to understand that things she does that revolve around Jesus don’t have to be contained just inside the four walls of a church. This time of year is about Jesus, no matter where you are.”
Visit our NEW online Christmas store!
