Tomorrow's HOPE - by Heather Mandala, Director of Children's Ministries                                                                                                   Have you ever watched a child learn? I mean really, truly been there for the “a ha” moment? It is an amazing thing. After teaching for years, I thought I knew what that was all about; I watched my students discover that feeling of accomplishment, self-confidence, and pride. Years later, I had my own children, and it was then that I truly realized how precious those moments are. Our “a ha” moments are what build a lifetime love of learning; they encourage and shape a child’s view of themselves. When done well, those moments are powerful enough to change the direction a child is headed.

Children between 2 and 5 are ripe for learning. Everything they do is about discovery: Every toy they play with, every show they watch, every interaction they have is opening doors for them. We know that, research has proven it. That is one of the reasons why preschools have sprung up all over the country – children are wired to learn. I believe that is why the Spirit has begun to move so strongly in a new ministry initiative here at HOPE. What began as a whisper soon became a deafening roar that we could not and would not ignore.

We are surrounded by children excited about learning, and we want to join with parents to encourage and nurture this excitement in their children. Tomorrow’s Hope Preschool will be opening its doors to our community next September! I think our recently developed vision statement says it best: We will provide enriching opportunities to help develop your child's gifts and abilities in a secure, loving, God-centered environment. We encourage your child's social, emotional, spiritual and intellectual development and help nurture each child to their individual best. What better learning environment could you offer to children than to be surrounded by God’s love and taught by Spirit-filled, highly qualified teachers and aides?

In this day and age, it is difficult to find a preschool that will address the child as a whole, almost impossible to find one that will address the spiritual growth of a child. That is what makes us different — we are clear about our mission. We will teach children about the unyielding love of God while we foster a life long love of learning, encourage healthy social interactions while challenging each child to discover his or her personal best. This concept of teaching the child as a whole is what makes learning fun and meaningful at the same time.
As we prepare to launch Tomorrow’s Hope Preschool in September 2008, there will be several exciting changes going on. Christine Graves has begun to work along side me in Children’s Ministry, and beginning in January, she will assume the role of Coordinator of Children’s Ministries. My new role will be Director of Children’s and Preschool Ministries, where I will support Chris and prepare for a fall 2008 opening.

There are so many ways for everyone to be involved: Please don’t hesitate to ask. You’ll be hearing a lot more about this initiative in the days ahead. I hope you will keep it in your prayers. I am fully convinced that God is calling us to minister in this new way to the children of our community; after all, they are Tomorrow’s HOPE.