A GREAT ministry is (re)starting at St. Francis de Sales.  We're beginning a nursery program for the 10:30 and 12:30 Masses, but instead of being "just babysitting," we're using this as an opportunity to teach the littlest ones about the Good News of God's Love, present in His Church. We're even remodeling the nursery to be a more welcoming, Jesus-centered place!  We hope to open it starting the first week of September 2015.

Children ages 6 months through age 4 will be welcomed to visit The Ark throughout Mass.  We will have a pager system in place in case a visitor is needing mommy or daddy so we can call them down, but our nursery is equipped with a changing table and bathroom.  We are also looking to add a child's size chapel and puppet show area.  We are working with a local artist to possibly add a mural to the space.

We need your help to make it possible.  There are a number of opportunities to get involved.

The Ark Captain and First Mates

Lessons will be easy to prepare and we'll have all the materials you need to serve on the Ark team. It's a great opportunity for anyone who loves to teach and work with young children. It's also a great chance to show some hospitality for our guests by providing them with a safe, loving place for their children to go and learn about Jesus while they participate in the Mass.  Adults are invited to serve as "captains" while mature middle and high school youth are invited to serve as "first mates."  The captains come prepared having reviewed the lesson plan and coordinate the first mates to help.

If interested, please use our online form to let us know.  If you have questions, you can also use the online form or contact Ricardo Valdez (rvaldez@stfrancisholland.org) in the parish office.

Training

We'll meet in the Ark located in the lower level.  Please contact Ricardo Valdez, Director of Faith Formation, about your interest in this ministry and attending the training before hand (rvaldez@stfrancisholland.org; 616-392-6700 x111).

Sunday, August 30th – 11:30 am

Progress

Updated Work, early August 2015

Our artists have been hard at work this summer.  They are almost finished with the painting.  Just a few eyes and other final touches to paint.

  

Update, May 2015: Our space has now been painted thanks to the Knights of Columbus!  We now look forward to adding decorative pieces and chair railing.