Sunday School Graduation

Shortly after school got out for the summer, Cody and Jaden moved up to a new Sunday School class. This is a big deal at our church because they go from being a part of Discover World, the infant to preK group under Ms. Amanda's care, to Discover Club, the K-2nd grade group which is led by Daddy! To recognize this big transition, Ms. Amanda holds a graduation ceremony for all of her outgoing preschoolers.

The after-church celebration kicked off with ice cream sundaes. Cody and Jaden were fairly nervous about the idea of walking across the stage during the ceremony, but the ice cream sure helped to put them in the right spirits! Grammy and Papa joined us at Salem for the ceremony as well.

Ms. Amanda dressed all the kids in graduation caps & tassels, gowns, and "Congrats Grad" necklaces. How cute is this?!

Jaden and Cody were NOT happy with me when I continued taking their pictures even after their friends started walking into the clubhouse to begin. Can't you just see the urgency in their expressions?-- "Mo-om, we're supposed to go in!"

The program officially began with Ms. Amanda talking with the class about how much she had enjoyed them and their high-energy this year. From all that she said, I gathered that this group had been a somewhat rowdy bunch.

The preschoolers then sang two songs together.

First, the "Hippo Song"...

...and then a cute, fun song called "The Fruit of the Spirit." The kids energetically waved around their instruments and laughed along with the CD of the guy shouting out, "The fruit of the Spirit's not a BANANA... or a WATERMELON!"

Next, it was time for the boys to get their graduation certificates. Each boy walked nervously across the stage after his name was called. This was a big moment for them to be singled out in front of a crowd!

After all the kids got their certificates, Daddy a.k.a. "Mr. Jason," talked to the whole group and welcomed the kids to Children's Ministry.

The program ended with a large confetti explosion! Ms. Amanda sure pulled out all the stops. :)

The boys really enjoyed their time with Ms. Amanda over the past two years. She has been a great leader for Jaden and Cody-- seeking to know them individually and modeling Jesus' love to them. We're so thankful for Ms. Amanda!  

Jaden & Cody with Ms. Amanda and their buddy Joshua

The Proud (and tired) Discover World Graduates!

We pray that Jaden and Cody's knowledge of the Lord continues to grow each day and that their love for Him deepens as well!