PINNACLE
CHILDLIKE FAITH
Have you ever been with a child experiencing the joy of something you’ve long since taken for granted for the first time? It can be an exhilarating, rejuvenating experience to re-discover a world that we adults can so easily miss. In our faith, we can also become so used to our routines, our practices, and the way we approach God that we miss the wonder, awe, openness, and even playfulness of a child. In this issue, we’ll explore how having ‘A Childlike Faith’ can shake us awake to wonders of how God is moving all around us!
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me”. ~ Matthew 18:3-4
SEPTEMBER
TUESDAYS High School Breakfast Club
WEDNESDAYS Fun Club for K-5th graders
THURSDAYS Middle School Breakfast Club
SUNDAYS Youth Sunday School
~ Deadline for Old Bill’s Charitable Donations
FAITH LIKE A CHILD
Rev. Ben Pascal
TRUSTING LIKE A CHILD
Aaron Nydam & Ron Nydam
TINIEST TEACHER: FAITH LIKE A BABY OF JOY ~ Sarah Romorini
UP INTO CHILDLIKE FAITH ~ Ashley Crawford
CURIOSITY LIKE A KID!
Amanda Lack 13 SEEDS OF FAITH GROW
Diane McGee
A VIBRANT CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
Tiffany Tate
HOW TO WATER THE SEEDS OF FAITH IN OUR CHILDREN
WHEN I STARTED THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
twenty years ago, I sent a silly prayer request to my family and friends. I asked them to pray that I would keep a child-like faith during my seminary education. I had heard that seminary was often referred to as “cemetery” because many students became disillusioned with their faith and subsequently their faith died as a result. I was determined not to let this happen to my faith in Jesus.
Thus, I mailed my loved ones a photo of me in front of an old military fort in Port Townsend, WA where I had posed with childlike fashion in front of some spray-painted graffiti above a dark tunnel with an arrow pointing to “Heaven.” I had a big silly grin on my face while gesturing with a thumbs up confidence that I had found the path to heaven. Accompanying the photo was the gospel passage from Mark 10:14 where Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” I asked people to put it on their refrigerators to remember to pray for me.
One of my dear childhood friends, Jen, received my prayer request. She then proceeded to send me a card every month with a return envelope. She instructed me to fill out the card and send it back to her. The card simply asked the question: “How am I keeping a childlike faith?” I would respond each month and send it back to her.
At first it was fun and easy. I would write things like, “I am inspired by my friend’s 5-year-old daughter who prays before dinner with such love and devotion to the Lord” and “I still laugh when someone farts during prayer time.” But then after several months and years into my seminary journey I started writing things like, “I think I’m losing my child-like faith“ and “I’m having a hard time with some of the stuff I am learning in seminary, it makes it hard to have a child-like faith.”
I remember one moment about mid-way through my seminary journey when I was having a conversation with another dear friend and I told them that I was having a difficult time in my faith. I had learned so much about the Bible and theology that a focus on knowledge began replacing a living and vibrant faith. I remember telling my friend that I wasn’t sure I believed in God anymore. It was one of the scariest things I have ever said out loud. For several month I went through a dry season in my faith as I tried to rediscover that childlike faith I had asked my friends and family to pray for. The year I graduated seminary was the same year I welcomed my first-born daughter, Nina, into the world. It was one of the best days of my life. That first year with Nina was a gift as I had the opportunity to be a stay-at-home dad. It was perhaps one of the best years of my life. I found that as I graduated seminary and became a father to a beautiful little child, my faith came alive again. I think it had something to do with the simplicity and beauty of holding Nina
in my arms, and how the whole world seemed to stop and all was still. Witnessing the awe and wonder of child birth and Nina’s childlike faith changed me. I rediscovered what it meant to follow Jesus with faith like a child. Joy and curiosity returned to my heart and mind. My prayers had been answered!
The week before we moved from Seattle to Jackson Hole in 2010, we celebrated Nina’s first birthday. Her party was also our going away party. My friend Jen gave me an incredible gift. She had saved all the cards I had sent her during seminary about how I was trying to keep a child-like faith. It was a beautiful reminder of the journey I went on. I shed some tears as I read those cards and remembered the difficult journey I took as I drifted away from that child-like faith in the Lord whom I love so much.
St. Augustine coined the term, “Faith seeking understanding.” It’s a beautiful
FAITH LIKE A CHILD
~ Rev. Ben Pascal
"Today if you hear Him, skipping rocks on the river, laughing in the garden, like when you were young.
Today if you hear Him, walking through the pine woods, racing down the big hill, calling you to come.
Don’t be too grown, for your own sake. Let the children come, let us become like children today.
reminder that we are called to faith first, understanding second. In the West we have it backwards. Many are searching to understand first before they will trust and have faith in God. Many want to have all the answers before they will believe. But it’s the other way around. First comes faith, then understanding. “Faith seeking understanding” is a beautiful invitation into a child-like faith.
How about you? How’s your faith? Do you still live with a sense of awe and wonder? How quick are you to love and forgive? Are you still curious about life and God? Are you asking thoughtful questions? Do you like to play and discover God’s marvelous creation? Are you able to enjoy the present moment? All these things come easy for a child. May we never forget these child-like ways of living.
There’s a song by Taylor Leonhardt and Andy Squyres entitled “Today If You Hear Him.” It’s a beautiful reminder to live with faith like a child. ✝
Today if you hear Him, let your feet take off running, don’t worry who is watching, let Him kiss you on the face. Don’t be too grown, for your own sake. Let the children come, let us become like children today."
~ By Aaron Nydam & Ron Nydam
“Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand."
~ Isaiah 64:8
WHEN WE READ MATTHEW 18: 3-4, JESUS makes a strong statement to all of us “adults” about the true nature of faith. “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” There is something quite powerful in the challenge of following the example of a child. Jesus needed his disciples, and all of us, to consider how faith is not something that we simply teach to our children. Instead, faith is something that our children teach us.
When we slow down a bit and observe the faith of our children, perhaps the first word that comes to mind is trust. Children trust. Through early development our children learn to trust that someone is there even when that person, father or mother, may not be seen. Children can know that someone else is present in another room and this gives the child the security necessary to explore the world with great freedom to do so.
Children learn to trust because of our continuous presence in their lives as caring adults who are committed to being a part of their lives. And when they feel secure, life can become a delightful experience for them, in part because they are able to trust in the presence of another. As adults, how do we come to really see and trust God’s committed presence in our lives?
TRUSTING LIKE A CHILD
There’s also something wonderfully beautiful and even simple about the faith of a child which is unburdened by all the challenges and complexities that adulting brings to us. We might note that the faith of a child can be simple because it is yet to meet all the tests that are yet to come with the human condition. Again, security is primary. The first experiences of life need to be the experiences of security so that children can grow, explore, and be curious about the world in which they live. Faith can be formed.
When trust is broken because of the absence of that parent figure, a childlike faith is harder to come by. Put simply, if my father or mother is not there for me, why would I believe that God is there for me? As life moves forward, the hardships of everyday life have impingements on the life of the child and their faith. Hurts and disappointments are part of our life experience and
though we may wish to protect our kiddos from them, we can only do that in a limited way. Our task is to help them navigate the sorrows that come with life experiences, disappointment when grades fall short, when social injury occurs in the context of the classroom. When all these experiences occur, these are the challenges to childlike faith.
In these moments, our children need to know that they are known. They need to know that there is one parent that really gets them, that understands them, that knows them deeply. When we are known, we are encouraged. When we are known, we borrow strength and confidence from the adults that know us. When we are known, we begin to trust. However, being known is sometimes hard to believe. Our task as parents and caring adults is to spend enough time in their early lives that they know for sure that they are known.
And finally, when we think about trust, or we think about hardship in life, or when we think about being known, we may come to realize that not only are these the things that children must learn for childlike faith, but as Jesus suggested, they become our teachers. Our children model faith for us. As adults, we manage uncertainty, and we may become doubtful, even about the love of God. In these moments, our children teach us about faith. Taking time to consider a child’s faith can lead us to remember our own spiritual history and struggles and our own need for God. Hebrews 11:1 reminds us, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see”. To form our faith, Jesus points us to our children, for whom we are eternally grateful. ✝
AARON NYDAM is Ron’s son and a member of PJCH. He is a former Children’s Ministry Elder. He and his wife, Leah, live in Jackson with their three children: Sam (9), Nora (11), and Greta (13).
AS THE CHILDREN’S COORDINATOR FOR PCJH I am excited to explain more about the theological, social, and practical reasons for prioritizing children’s ministry by highlighting its potential to shape the future of our church, foster engagement for the whole church, and—most importantly— nurture the spiritual growth of our kids.
Children are the future of the church and they are also the present. A thriving children’s ministry invites kids into developing a personal relationship with God, and encourages a child’s God-given curiosity along the way.
When the kids at PCJH discuss a Bible story, for example the story of Zaccheus, it is an answer to prayer. The kids are remembering and will apply the biblical lessons to their lives, just like Daniel in the lions' den. Kids know if they are brave enough to stand up to others, God will help them. The kids at PCJH are learning about the Bible, and are encouraged to start asking questions. The elementary years at church are important because they lay the initial foundation and the kids become curious about the Bible.
Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) states, "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." This verse emphasizes the lifelong impact of early spiritual education. Investing in children’s ministry aligns with the biblical mandate to disciple and nurture the faith of young people.
Jesus Himself highlighted the significance of children in the kingdom of God. In Matthew 19:14, Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." This powerful declaration by Jesus underscores the value that he placed on children and youth. By prioritizing children’s ministry, we follow Jesus’ example to ensure that our church remains a nurturing place for kids who come to Jesus in innocence and openness.
How do you build a strong foundation for the church through our children’s ministry program?
The goal of children's ministry at PCJH is to lead children to believe in God and to encourage exploration and openness about their faith journey. This is achieved through a variety of ways including; biblical education, moral instruction, community, and family engagement.
Fostering a sense of belonging and community among the children at PCJH happens in many ways. We will provide activities and service opportunities that encourage working together with other members in our church. Finally, family engagement is the key to the spiritual education of the children. Our church wants to listen and develop a program to support parents while recognizing that they are the primary spiritual influencers in their children's lives.
Children's ministry at PCJH is developing a number of important areas that will encourage children to love learning about
the Bible and become life-long Christians. By using age appropriate lessons the kids activities are engaging, interesting, and fun! The biblical teachings are more memorable when kids participate in interactive learning that includes; crafts, games, art, and music. Our PCJH kids teachers are positive Christian role models for the children. The volunteers help guide their Christian faith and we are grateful for everyone who helps our kids! We also teach our kids the importance of helping others and living out their faith in practical ways through service projects.
A strong children's ministry strengthens the overall church community. It fosters intergenerational relationships and ensures that children feel valued in the life of the church. Beyond spiritual education, children's ministry contributes to the moral and ethical development of children. It teaches them to live out Christian values in their daily lives, shaping them into responsible and compassionate individuals. By providing resources and support to families, children's ministry helps parents in their role as primary spiritual educators. The partnership between the church and families will continue to develop to enhance the overall effectiveness of children's spiritual education.
Volunteers play a crucial role in children's ministry, providing a foundation of support that can deeply influence the spiritual and emotional development of young people. Volunteers often serve as role models, demonstrating the principles of their faith through their actions and interactions, which can have a lasting impact.
PCJH's Children's ministry is a vital aspect of its mission to nurture young believers in their faith journey. By providing a strong biblical foundation, fostering community, and supporting families, the church plays a crucial role in shaping the spiritual, moral, and social development of its youngest members. Children's ministry continues to be a cornerstone of the church's efforts for the next generation of faithful Christians. ✝
ICONSIDER MYSELF A PRETTY JOYFUL PERSON, but nothing could’ve prepared me for the joy of watching our sweet baby discover the world. The sweetness (and hundreds of photos on my phone) that accompany every little “first”—whether it’s rolling over, trying a banana, or that very first belly laugh—reminds me of how good the simple stuff is. Watching our baby’s unreserved trust, dependence, curiosity, and love has been a gentle reminder of the power of childlike faith that can get buried under the heavy cover of complex adulting.
Our little one is seven months old and depends on us for everything—food, protection, diaper changes, and those 3am snuggles. Despite being so new to the world, he instinctively trusts that we’ll provide what he needs…even if there are some cries of protest along the way when I didn’t guess it right the first time. I plop him in his car seat, and put him in the car. He has to trust my Italian-style driving and AND he doesn’t know where we’re going. He doesn’t worry or overthink—he just knows it’ll get sorted. Even though the destination is unknown, we’re going there together.
a sense of wonder that’s easy to lose as we grow up. What if I brought that same sense of wonder, joy, and curiosity to my relationship with God? And unlike all the baby gear Instagram says is essential, these beautiful emotions—joy, wonder, hope—don’t cost anything, and they make life infinitely richer.
A beautiful part of our parenthood journey is experiencing a love without boundaries. Our little one loves us simply for who we are, and trusts us completely. That kind of love is a reminder that faith is also love—simple, unconditional, and without reservation. It’s a reflection of this pure kind of love God has for each of us—a love we don’t have to earn or deserve, but that’s freely given. Having faith like a child means embracing this love and letting it transform our relationship with God and with others.
One of the things I’m learning is that love is really the highest frequency. Absolutely nothing could’ve prepared me for the love I feel for our little one. I used
"Love is a totally infinite pie that keeps expanding—there’s no limit, no bottom, no boundaries. It’s totally unconditional."
Having faith like a child lifts the burden of doubt, fear, the need for control and getting overwhelmed by how complex life can be. Life is uncertain, but every day , we’re invited to rest in the peace that, even if we don’t understand what’s happening, God’s got it covered. When we pick our baby up during a fussy moment, he usually calms down because he knows he’s safe in our loving arms. And unlike his mama, who’s just winging it day by day, there’s a faultless God force who created the universe who’s wanting to hold each of us and give us that peace and rest.
My friends confidently told me that babies don’t actually smile until they’re older, and those early grins are just because of gas. But I swear, there were hints of joyful smiles when our baby was just a few weeks old (and no, it wasn’t just gas!). Now, those smiles have evolved into full-on belly laughs about the simple stuff…dancing, looking at trees, scooting on the floor, peekaboo on repeat, and extra snuggles. Every day is packed with new experiences for both of us, and there’s
to think of love as finite, like a pie and suddenly there’s just crumbs left. But no! Love is a totally infinite pie that keeps expanding—there’s no limit, no bottom, no boundaries. It’s totally unconditional. And it’s incredible to imagine that the love I feel for our baby is only a fraction of the love our Creator has for each of us.
So, what have I learned in these first few months, other than how amazing sleep used to be? Life gets a lot simpler when I let go and trust with joy, love, wonder like our sweet baby. ✝
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BEING ASKED BY A KID FOR THE 47TH TIME,
“Are we there yet?” when you’re not even out of the neighborhood can certainly wear on the nerves of any parent. However, asking questions is absolutely essential to appropriate growth. Okay, maybe the “are we there yet” question is just annoying. But truly, have you ever noticed how many questions children tend to ask? Similar to how babies put everything in their mouth, this is how they learn about the world around them! Babies aren’t yet able to articulate words so they explore through touch.
Children between the ages of 2 and 5 begin to have the vocabulary and articulation to learn about the world around them by experiences and asking questions. In fact, research shows that children at age 4 ask around 300 questions a day… and about total 40,000 questions are asked by kids between ages 2-5. This is incredible! Their brains are so thirsty for knowledge, and a lot of cognition is taking place that will set them up for success later. In fact, curiosity is one of the most important habits kids can have in order to be more successful in school and in life.
As a mother of three as well as a preschool teacher, I’m quite aware of the inquisitiveness of children. Sometimes when you’re at home trying to cook dinner or in the classroom trying to get through a lesson and interruptions continue by your tiny question-asking companion(s), the adult tendency is to sigh and tell them - in some form - to be quiet. Why do we do this? Why do we silence the inquisitive nature of these little learners?
Well there are obvious circumstances as adults in those moments of feeling stressed, overwhelmed, processing a rough day, being in pain and so on that are very legitimate reasons to not be fully engaged in a child’s relentless stream of question asking. But it's important to see it differently when the possibility is there to do so. We want to teach children not to interrupt and certainly to show respect, but when the moment is there to
engage, it should be taken as a benefit to both parties involved.
So, what can kids’ questions teach us as adults? Simply put: it can teach us to remain childlike. To be childlike is very different from being childish. Being childish indicates a lack of maturity, but being childlike indicates having a sense of wonder, being curious, acquiring more knowledge you don’t yet have, and, you guessed it… asking questions. These are healthy traits of a lifelong learner, which adults should be in order to fulfill all our capabilities and expand our possibilities; it helps us be more adaptable and confident, fulfilled and healthy, and so much more.
Kids don't think about limitations and how hard something can be, they just let creativity flow and have no problem thinking of new ideas. While adults realize that life holds many highs and lows, the art of asking questions is the beneficial thread woven through our quilt of life with its various patches of all the seasons we hold.
As Christian circles, we talk about having childlike faith. In the Gospels, Jesus Himself mentions in Matthew 18:4-5 “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me.”
These are powerful words not to be taken lightly. Another thing to consider is – does God mind our questions? Actually, I think it delights His heart greatly when we approach Him with questions. Children ask questions all the time and after all, we are God’s children. Being curious and asking questions is not just a child thing, it’s a human thing.
We see Jesus’s disciples asking Him questions quite a bit - 187 times in the gospels to be precise. This Rabbi was shaking things up and they were constantly curious about it. When things don’t make sense or we don’t have enough information to make connections, we ask questions. When we’re curious and want to challenge assumptions, we ask questions. This helps us attain more information in order to make a decision. ✝After asking God our own questions (He can handle the hard ones, too!) we see answers in prayer, a trusted friend, reading His Word, and hearing that still, small voice the Bible talks about. Let us be a generation that continues to ask questions and keeps childlike wonder alive both for our own sake and as an example for the generation to come. ✝
THIS ARTICLE IS SUPPOSED TO BE ABOUT “watering the seeds of faith in our family,” but I first need to share how my first baby helped to water my own faith 32-years ago. We were living in LA and attending Brentwood Presbyterian Church. I had been asked to join another woman as joint elders for Children’s Ministry. I thought they were nuts! I had a brand new baby to take care of! How was I going to find the time? But as I looked down at my baby in his crib, I was awed at what a blessing from God he was, and I felt the Lord telling me that this was something I could and should do.
So, I became an elder and carted “Baby Jake” to many meetings and events at the church. As happy as I was to be a new mom, I was feeling a loss of identity after working as a prosecutor. But being involved with the Children’s Ministry team gave me a wonderful new purpose, and the women I worked with were wonderful role models for me. I was blessed to be a part of a beautiful group of people dedicated to sharing God’s love with the smallest members of the congregation.
When I look back on my active child raising years, I regret that I wasn’t a little more intentional about “watering the seeds of faith” in my two sons. We certainly attended church regularly together, thanked the Lord for our blessings before dinner, and said bedtime prayers in their younger years. However, I wish we had had more pointed discussions about faith and about the Bible, to encourage both them and me to think about what it means to believe in and love the Lord. But thankfully, where I was falling down on the job, I believe the Lord stepped in. But not just the Lord; also those through whom the Lord was working. So, although my sons are not regular church-goers, I feel that they have turned into extremely good, spiritual people who live out Christian values. And I can be hopeful and prayerful that someday, perhaps when they have children, their faith will deepen and they will find church homes.
That old saying that “it takes a village” is true, especially if that village is a faith community. I am so thankful for the other people God was working through to impact their lives. At PCJH, both boys attended summer vacation Bible school where volunteers gave them experiences that have shaped their lives. At age seven, Patrick acted in his first church play, learning his lines and everyone else's! Since then, it’s been all theater all the time, leading to a career as an attorney (plenty of acting there!).
Jake got an opportunity to make a movie in his vacation Bible school that same summer, and now he is a documentary filmmaker. The Episcopal school they each attended for seven years provided both an academic study of religion, and daily chapel for worship and spirituality. The teachers there were excellent role models for them.
I’ve come to realize that it’s also important to check in with a child about what they are learning about Christianity from others, primarily to affirm the lesson, but also to spot something that
may be “off.” In talking to Jake about this article, he shared that his second-grade Sunday school teacher was constantly talking about things that would get you sent to Hell! (We didn’t stay long at that church).
I am so happy that both boys feel a connectivity to God through nature, art and music. We have been so blessed to be able to share time with them here in God’s beautiful creation. I am thrilled to see how much they value inclusivity, family and friends. Both sons and their wives are poised to move to new cities and start new jobs and new adventures. I plan to get my watering can out and encourage them to look for a church community after they unpack! ✝
AMANDA LACK Originally from Tulsa, OK, Amanda has worked as the Little Lambs Preschool Director since 2018. She is a wife and proud mother of three boys.
KACY O'HARE is a retired attorney who likes to hike, bike, ski and cook with her husband, Scott. Jake and his wife are moving to Berkeley, and Patrick and his wife are moving to DC.
THROUGHOUT THE 2024 SUMMER, I HAD THE privilege of connecting with youth and young adults as PCJH’s Summer Fellow. Being surrounded by youth has inspired me with how they pursue a childlike faith while growing into their adolescence amidst many facets of life that can either hinder or kindle their faith.
For instance, as youth become more involved in sports, school events, work, spending time with friends, learning to drive, and outside pressures, which can be good things, they may start to feel they are juggling so much and being occupied in many different directions. Nevertheless, I have witnessed students kindling their faith by how they choose to lean into more of the freedom and independence they have as teenagers, most notably by surrendering control to God and wanting to invite Jesus into their everyday lives.
One of the unique aspects of a childlike faith is considering how children may choose to wander off and do whatever pleases them, yet they know they will have more direction and support when they walk with someone who they can trust and will care for them like a parent or guardian. Youth are in a pivotal stage of life, where they rightly no longer want to be called kids. Yet, they show humility by wanting to grow deeper in their faith, be a part of intentional Christian community, and walk with Jesus, recognizing how He will love and care for them further than what they can do themselves.
This childlike faith is so significant because they choose to make that decision for themselves beyond the faith or lack thereof of their families. It has been incredible to see the childlike faith of youth in their willingness to simply show up to youth group events. For instance, I have seen students coming to church every Sunday whether their families do or not. It also shines when students invite their friends to join because they want them to also experience the joy they have being together in community. In addition, youth embody a childlike faith with their natural curiosity and willingness to learn more. For instance, the youth have been doing a 40-day summer challenge reading The Gospel of Mark and many students have wanted to read more scripture and have quiet time with God. Youth also show their childlike faith in their creativity, knowing they may connect with God in different ways. For example, in youth dinner clubs, Sunday School, and other events this summer, students would do devotionals, ask questions, and process ideas in unique ways like drawing.
Furthermore, youth show their childlike faith in their willingness to try new experiences, such as with service and engaging with their gifts and talents. I saw this from the very beginning of my time at PCJH when students led worship for the Milestone
~ Ashley Crawford
Sunday service. Students also live out their faith regarding 1 Timothy 4:12: “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” This was a key verse I held onto as I prepared for my summer Fellowship, knowing I would be the youngest in Ascent (PCJH’s young adult group). I have seen the youth live this verse out by their humility, recognizing that others may be older and have more experience, but also acknowledging that God may be calling and want to use them regardless of age or particularly because they are young.
During Middle School Service Week, most of the students just finished elementary school and were going into 6th grade. Nevertheless, they did not let their young age stop them as they had meaningful connections with residents at Sage Senior Living and Community Entry Service. This childlike faith to say “yes” and serve was also evident in Vacation Bible Adventure (VBA) with 15 amazing youth leaders, who shared their uplifting presence.
I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to have been part of the PCJH community this summer and for how everyone welcomed and cared for me in many ways. It was such a blessing to connect with youth and young adults. Similarly, in Matthew 18:5, Jesus calls all of us to value those who are young as He says, “whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” Every person in the PCJH community matters greatly, including those who are young, and we can continue to learn from them about pursuing a childlike faith. ✝
WHAT A BLESSING IT IS TO TEACH YOUNG children. Through my preschool, PCJH activities like Vacation Bible Adventure (VBA), Sunday School, and the Christmas Pageant, and also coaching tennis, I have the opportunity to impact young lives. I am a witness to how they can thrive in an environment where they feel seen and loved. Jesus did this, and I aspire to do likewise.
There is so much that is captivating in being with children - be it through silliness, connection through play, providing loving boundaries, reading books, exploring and adventuring in the outdoors, and learning about Jesus. I get transported into their world and enjoy the moments of becoming like them by being with them. Together, we notice and experience the small stuff, traveling at their pace, and soaking so much in.
If you’ve seen “The Chosen” (season 1, episode 3), there are a handful of children who are spying on and peeking at Jesus, who’s hanging out at his camping spot before he begins his ministry. Of course, he knows they are there and welcomes them to join him and learn from him.
Following Jesus’ example, PCJH welcomes the little children and provides opportunities for seeds of faith to be planted. This past July, children and their families were invited into our church to experience STELLAR Vacation Bible Adventure. Our resident astronaut (aka Pastor Ben), welcomed participants outside the building and helpful teens and adults welcomed them into different “crews”: Cosmo, Sol, Astro, Luna, Halley, and Ringo. The sanctuary was transformed into an extraterrestrial setting with one of the most beautiful images of us standing on the moon, looking back on the earth.
history.”
A total of 57 kids - ages 3 through 5th grade - rotated between stations, where they laughed and learned from the Mickey Way skits; danced and sang songs, including “Shine His Light;” enjoyed All-Star Games, Imagination Station, and Galactic
“Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand." ~ Isaiah 64:8
Snacks. Most importantly, they learned about Jesus and prayer through the engaging Stellar Bible Adventures. We learned a new phrase each day based on a Bible story and Bible verse. For example, the first day was the story of Jesus’ birth, and the verse was “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12). Our phrase was “When life feels dark, shine Jesus’ light!” We wrapped up the morning with more singing, praying, and sharing “God Sightings” at the Cosmic Closing. Then, 36 children were offered afternoon adventures, which got them out into God’s great outdoors of Jackson Hole and blessed working parents. Many seeds of faith were planted by 35 dedicated leaders, eight of whom were rising 6th-10th graders. What a joy to behold how they were all engaged in childlike ways through their roles shining Jesus’ light! Facts and stats are the visible Milky Way, but all of the ways God was working in and through every experience took us to “infinity and beyond!” When I reflect on the STELLAR VBA experience, I am so proud to have been a part of this outreach, and that we powerfully served our community through it. All praise and thanks to God! Did you know that 68% of the kids do not call PCJH their church home? Contrasted and expected, 69% of leaders were part of the PCJH congregation. Though the memories of VBA 2024 are fading, the impacts on these future generations are in the hands of the Holy Spirit - the seeds of faith have been planted. I trust in God’s plan for these kids and am grateful for Jesus as our role model and encourager to become more like children in order to enter into his Kingdom. What a joy! Today, while walking with my preschool kiddos, I encouraged them to be friendly as we passed others. One of my preschool boys, who attended VBA this July, is especially friendly, and I remarked how kind he was with his words to others. He said, “Shine Jesus’ Light!” “Yes, Shine Jesus’ Light,” I responded, and I thanked God for that glimpse into how the seeds that were planted during VBA are taking root and actively growing. ✝ What a blessing it is to learn from and teach young children, especially about Jesus. ✝
~ Diane McGee DIANE MCGEE came to PCJH 17 years ago through her daughter, Clara, during its Christmas pageant...“and a little child shall lead them.”
ASHLEY CRAWFORD served PCJH in the summer of 2024 as our Whitworth Summer Fellow. She is currently continuing her studies back at Whitworth University in secondary education in
Pastoral Staff
Rev. Ben Pascal bpascal@pcjh.org
Senior Pastor x 101
Rev. Tammy Mitchell tmitchell@pcjh.org
Associate Pastor x 104
Office Staff
Brian Bultema bbultema@pcjh.org
Church Administrator x109
Cindy Dahlin cdahlin@pcjh.org
Church Administrator Assitant x107
Ally Kiefer akiefer@pcjh.org
Communications Coordinator x102
Program Staff
Laura Huckin huckin@silverstar.net Worship & Music Coordinator x123
Amanda Lack alack@pcjh.org
Little Lambs Director x111
Megan Walker mwalker@pcjh.org
Youth & Young Adult Ministry Coordinator x124
Tiffany Tate ttate@pcjh.org
Children's Ministry Diredctor x103
Ruling Elders
2024
Wes Lucas* Stewardship
Steve Iobst* Buildings, Grounds & Vehicles
Marian Meyers Youth Ministry
Becky Kimmel Worship
2025
Clerk of Session: Ken Blount
Sarah Romorini Mission
Trent Doyle Children’s Ministry
Tiffany Tate Congregational Life
John Scott* Finance 2026
Judy Kaelber Adult Ministry
Josh Ziolkowski Young Adult Ministry
Alan Lund Personnel
Patty McDonald Assimilation & Nomination
Teaching Elders: Rev. Ben Pascal & Rev. Tamara Mitchell
Deacons
Class of 2024
Lori Dodd*
Brad Herman*
Joy Steiner*
Tom Segerstrom
NICK & ALEXANDRA ALESSANDRO / NEW MEMBERS
Hello PCJH! We’re Nick & Alexandra Alessandro (and Roman), new members at the church. I (Alexandra) have lived in Jackson for 11 years. I enjoy paddle boarding, cross country skiing and am trying to perfect her golf game. Me and Nick have a newborn boy, Roman, and enjoy spending time with our friends and family in the valley. I am in marketing for a local Jackson company.
I (Nick) am originally from San Diego; I have enjoyed coming to Jackson Hole with my family over the years and moved here permanently over ten years ago. Me and Alexandra had a beautiful baby boy in March. For work, I am a local chef and enjoy cooking for work and fun, as well as working on cars, art and spending time with my family. We both are looking forward to becoming a bigger part of the PCJH community.
ALAN SMITH / NEW MEMBER
I am originally from Greenville, South Carolina and first moved to Jackson in 2006 before permanently relocating here in 2015 after a stint in Colorado. I have been married to fellow PCJH member Jennifer for 3 years now, having met her out here in Jackson. My education background is in meteorology, and I am currently employed as a meteorologist for OpenSnow, an outdoors and skiing-focused weather app, where I cover weather in the Tetons and beyond. I grew up going to a Presbyterian church in South Carolina, and rediscovered my faith after moving to Jackson and attending PCJH with Jennifer. I have always found PCJH to be a warm and welcoming church and am excited to officially become a member.
JOHN VEHR / NEW MEMBER
Hello PCJH! I am thrilled to become a new member here at the church. This has been long overdue, because I have been attending this church for a little over seven years. I moved to Wyoming 11 years ago with my daughter, Skylar. Here, I met my wife, Tiffany Tate, and together we have four kids: Rocco, Matteo, and Valentina, who are all in middle school, and Skylar, who is a senior in high school. Originally, I moved from the Carolinas, where I still have family and visit often. Wyoming has been a wonderful adventure, and I now call it home. We love to ski and spend as much time outdoors as possible. Professionally, I work as a software engineer.
Class of 2025
Cameron Page
Dorothy Neckels*
Karlene Owens
Sierra Fulton*
Class of 2026
Ponteir Sackery*
Brian Bultema*
Sandra Guido Fernandez*
Peter Lori
PHOTO: Tk Baptism march at PCJH Worship
WHEN I STARTED THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
twenty years ago, I sent a silly prayer request to my family and friends. I asked them to pray that I would keep a child-like faith during my seminary education. I had heard that seminary was often referred to as “cemetery” because many students became disillusioned with their faith and subsequently their faith died as a result. I was determined not to let this happen to my faith in Jesus.
Thus, I mailed my loved ones a photo of me in front of an old military fort in Port Townsend, WA where I had posed with childlike fashion in front of some spray-painted graffiti above a dark tunnel with an arrow pointing to “Heaven.” I had a big silly grin on my face while gesturing with a thumbs up confidence that I had found the path to heaven. Accompanying the photo was the gospel passage from Mark 10:14 where Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” I asked people to put it on their refrigerators to remember to pray for me.
One of my dear childhood friends, Jen, received my prayer request. She then proceeded to send me a card every month with a return envelope. She instructed me to fill out the card and send it back to her. The card simply asked the question: “How am I keeping a childlike faith?” I would respond each month and send it back to her. At first it was fun and easy. I would write things like, “I am inspired by my friend’s 5-year-old daughter who prays before dinner with such love and devotion to the Lord” and “I still laugh when someone farts during prayer time.” But then after several months and years into my seminary journey I started writing things like, “I think I’m losing my child-like faith“ and “I’m having a hard time with some of the stuff I am learning in seminary, it makes it hard to have a child-like faith.”
I remember one moment about mid-way through my seminary journey when I was having a conversation with another dear friend and I told them that I was having a difficult time in my faith. I had learned so much about the Bible and theology that a focus on knowledge began replacing a living and vibrant faith. I remember telling my friend that I wasn’t sure I believed in God anymore. It was one of the scariest things I have ever said out loud. For several month I went through a dry season in my faith as I tried to rediscover that childlike faith I had asked my friends and family to pray for. The year I graduated seminary was the same year I welcomed my first-born daughter, Nina, into the world. It was one of the best days of my life. That first year with Nina was a gift as I had the opportunity to be a stay-at-home dad. It was perhaps one of the best years of my life. I found that as I graduated seminary and became a father to a beautiful little child, my faith came alive again. I think it had something to do with the simplicity and beauty of holding Nina in my arms, and how the whole world seemed to stop and all was still. Witnessing the awe and wonder of child birth and Nina’s child-like faith changed me. I
FAITH LIKE A CHILD
~ Rev. Ben Pascal
rediscovered what it meant to follow Jesus with faith like a child. Joy and curiosity returned to my heart and mind. My prayers had been answered!
The week before we moved from Seattle to Jackson Hole in 2010, we celebrated Nina’s first birthday. Her party was also our going away party. My friend Jen gave me an incredible gift. She had saved all the cards I had sent her during seminary about how I was trying to keep a child-like faith. It was a beautiful reminder of the journey I went on. I shed some tears as I read those cards and remembered the difficult journey I took as I drifted away from that child-like faith in the Lord whom I love so much.
St. Augustine coined the term, “Faith seeking understanding.” It’s a beautiful reminder that we are called to faith first, understanding second. In the West we have it backwards. Many are searching to understand first before they will trust and have faith in God. Many want to have all the answers before they will believe. But it’s the other way around. First comes faith, then understanding. “Faith seeking understanding” is a beautiful invitation into a child-like faith.
How about you? How’s your faith?
Do you still live with a sense of awe and wonder? How quick are you to love and forgive? Are you still curious about life and God? Are you asking thoughtful questions?
Do you like to play and discover God’s marvelous creation? Are you able to enjoy the present moment? All these things come easy for a child. May we never forget these child-like ways of living.
There’s a song by Taylor Leonhardt and Andy Squyres entitled “Today If You Hear Him.” It’s a beautiful reminder to live with faith like a child. ✝
REV. BEN PASCAL
is the Senior Pastor of PCJH married to Addie and blessed to have three amazing kids.
