On the morning of Sunday, July 31st, the congregation of St. Andrew's was joined at worship by kids and parents from its two summer programs. It was a perfect morning, and there were smiles all around as the kindergarten kids from Play and Learn and the older group from the boat-building Experience were introduced to the congregation that made it all possible. Nearly all the boat-building kids were there, often with several family members. Most participated in the worship service to one degree or another. Each of the boat-builders told the assembly what they enjoyed most. We sang Inch by Inch, Row by Row," for the Play and Learn gardeners and "Michael Row the Boat Ashore" for the boat-builders. We prayed. All the people sprinkled the boats with water as we blessed them. Many people admired the boats, and the fact they were built by kids. I was very proud of our team.
Then worship was over and it was time to launch the boats. The parents learned the ground rules: they were in charge of their kids, a teacher was in charge of each boat. No one would get into a boat without a life jacket on. Boats were not to go out beyond waist-depth.
We all drove our cars to the home of church members Marilyn and Jay in Fairhaven--our great hosts--where the boats were launched into calm water with a light on-shore breeze--perfect for safety. In no time at all the boat-building kids had paddled about, and some had given rides to siblings. Even a parent or two took a turn. As kids became more confident, more than one crew "accidentally" overturned their boat. These boats were simply lifted up sideways to drain the water, and they were ready for more fun.
All this was good fun. Should we do it again? A "reunion" of the boat-builders may be in the works for later in the summer. Reply below or send me an email if you're interested!
The boats are lined up before launch. The near one was quickly built as a prototype, the two kids boats are next; the little plastic kayak at the back was the "rescue boat" in case anyone needed to be towed back to shore. No one needed to.
Hmm... Maybe we should both face the same direction! Mathew helps.
kids set off.
Some kids had more experience with paddles than others.
The fleet afloat. Eleanor watches her charges.
People watch.
Leaders of St. Andrew's approve. Reverend Blair, second from left, gets credit for the program.
