"THIS IS SO COOL!"

The Kid Central Birthday Party for Jesus was the largest birthday party I have ever participated in. These are a few of my snapshots of the night: I was inspired as I watched families get their pictures taken in various spots and am hopeful it was a great memory they took home with them. Mark Thompson presented a meaningful message, and the presentation of the Christmas story by Jason, Meredith, and Matt was especially moving. I saw children smiling at all 15 game venues and laughing in the chapel. Every time I visited the craft venue, it was packed with children at tables making fun things. The nine-foot birthday cake was phenomenal, and not a single piece was left!

Thanks to the many volunteers whose positive attitude was strongly felt throughout the evening. Their smiling faces represented our love for Jesus. It was a night of meaningful ministry to our church families and many who came from outside Central Wesleyan. Over 1000 people celebrated Jesus with us!

--Jay Hostetler

My two grandchildren loved the Birthday Party for Jesus. In the Silent Night room with Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus we experienced peace and sensed that it was a very special place. Even Ashley (my two-year-old) watched in awe. We went to one of the game rooms next and when we left there, Taylor (five) asked if we could go back to the live manger. Ashley was so excited to go to Jesus’ birthday party and loved the huge cake in the gym. Taylor loves crafts so we spent quite a bit of time there. It was evident that those planning the evening thought about how children of all ages and learning styles could have a rich experience learning about Christmas. I am so grateful to all for allowing God to use them in powerful ways. As a grandmother, it means more than I can express that Ashley and Taylor experienced such a meaningful evening.

--Linda A.

My favorite part of the evening was when a 9-year-old boy came running full blast into the gym, literally skidding to a stop between the cake tables. He took a long look around and shouted “THIS IS SO COOL!” before getting his piece of cake. If there is anything kids should be excited about in December, it is celebrating Jesus!

--Lisa W.