This week has been full of thoughts about weddings.  Coincidently, we discussed the seventh commandment in class last Sunday: "You shall not commit adultery."  In preparation for this class the question came up, "How do we teach this subject to a child?"

In their lives, marriage is not a subject our children are concerned about, but they need to learn a basic concept.  Faithfulness was chosen as our topic.  This might seem like a simplistic approach, but it is true.  If we are faithful to God, we will follow his commandments; we’ll allow him to work in our lives; and we will love our mates the way God wants us to.  If our mates love God, they will act the same way.  We discussed that faithfulness is loyalty, reliability and devotion.

How are we loyal?  When God needs us to do something, we do it.  We need to search for ways to serve God and be there when he needs us.  Would you neglect your best friend or your family?

How are we reliable?  We are consistent in our obedience to God.  We follow his laws and teachings and treat others the way God wants us to.  Do we serve God sometime or all the time?

How are we devoted?  We love God and always keep him in our hearts.  God is not a favorite sweater we put on once in awhile, so we need to show our love everyday.

Our children are learning that God is faithful to us, and they need to remain faithful to him.  If we are truly faithful to God it will show in our relationships with our spouses, family and friends.  We pray that God will continue to shine in our lives so our children may see that light in us.

In him for the children,
Karen and Kathy

There will be a Deacon’s Meeting today at 3:30 p.m. in the Deacon’s Office.

Have you brought soup for Medina Children’s Home?  They will pick it up the week of September 12.

The Hillcrest congregation is sponsoring a Singles Retreat for Sept 9-11.  Ask for more information in the office.

Ladies, plan ahead for new Wednesday morning and evening classes prepared just for you.  More information later.

CHRISTIAN HOMES
The Coins for Kidz cans need to be turned in on Sunday, August 28.  Please be aware that your gift can be topped off with a check or paper cash.  Christian Homes has also asked us to announce that they are looking for house managers in the maternity home.  If you are interested, there is additional information in the church office.

WOODLAWN PICTORIAL DIRECTORY
SIGN UP FOR YOUR PHOTO APPOINTMENT TODAY AT THE TABLE IN THE FOYER PHOTO DATES: TUESDAY - THURSDAY SEPT. 13, 14, 15.
Our directory will be published through Olan Mills this year.  Each family/household that comes for photography and portrait viewing here at the building will receive a complimentary 8 x 10 Custom Color Portrait.  You will be able to view and select your portrait electronically from a variety of poses.  Additional Olan Mills portraits will be available for purchase if you wish.  Your entire appointment will normally take less than one hour.

STATISTICS FOR AUGUST 7, 2005